In a significant review meeting held in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued a series of directives aimed at accelerating the holy city's development and enhancing its global stature. The meeting, which took place on Saturday evening at the circuit house, saw the presence of senior officials and public representatives.
Focus on Global Branding and Project Pace
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that all government departments must work cohesively to promote the global image of Varanasi effectively. He instructed officials to expedite the pace of ongoing development works, particularly those meant to ease traffic congestion on routes leading to the Kashi Vishwanath Dham.
A major hurdle identified was delays in land acquisition for various projects. The CM directed officials to ensure proper legal representation in pending court cases to facilitate their speedy disposal. This comes as several landowners have approached the courts regarding land acquisition matters.
Decongesting Streets and River Rejuvenation
To tackle the perennial issue of traffic jams, Yogi Adityanath called for regulating the movement of rickshaws and handcarts by creating designated vending zones. He ordered a complete crackdown on illegally operating taxi, bus, and rickshaw stands. The creation of adequate parking spaces at suitable locations was also mandated.
Turning to environmental concerns, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure concrete action for the rejuvenation of the Varuna river. He further asked the Varanasi Municipal Corporation and Jal Nigam to make necessary improvements in their systems for sewerage management and drinking water supply.
Law, Order, and Pilgrim Facilitation
Reviewing the law and order situation, CM Yogi stated that an improvement was needed in the conduct and working style of the police, home guards, and other security forces. He urged them to be more cooperative towards tourists and the common public.
Specific directives included:
- Keeping a strict check on hookah bars.
- Preventing haphazard parking of vehicles on roads.
- Ensuring prompt action in cases of cybercrimes, illegal encroachment, and activities of mafias, professional goons, and chain snatchers.
For the comfort of pilgrims, the CM stressed increasing continuous dialogue with boatmen to prevent any inconvenience. He firmly stated that the ghats along the Ganga are meant for devotees and that no protests or disorderly conduct should be allowed there.
Preparations for Festivals and Winter
In view of the commencement of the Magh Mela in Prayagraj and the prevailing cold conditions, Yogi Adityanath directed that night shelters be made operational in adequate numbers. He also called for the distribution of blankets and other necessary arrangements for the poor and visitors.
Officials were asked to maintain vigilance and make special preparations for the Magh Mela crowd. Additionally, the CM instructed them to ensure adequate arrangements for all upcoming festivals in Varanasi.
Concluding the review, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of coordination between departments and public representatives. He directed that the Public Works Department (PWD), UP Bridge Corporation, and other implementing agencies should get their development projects reviewed by public representatives as well. Nodal officers were instructed to monitor every piece of work closely and inform the government immediately in case of any obstacles.
