Lucknow: In a significant move aimed at accelerating the development of Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi Adityanath government has announced its ambitious plan to establish a unique religious and economic region by merging the historic cities of Varanasi and Prayagraj along with five other districts. This newly envisioned region will span an area of over 22,000 square kilometers and is expected to serve as a hub for religious, cultural, and industrial growth.
The state government has revealed its intent to create a dedicated Varanasi-Prayagraj Regional Development Authority to oversee the holistic development of this area. The proposed region will not only highlight its profound religious and historical significance but also integrate modern infrastructure, industrial zones, and knowledge parks to bolster its economic potential. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, this initiative aims to generate substantial employment opportunities for the local population and catalyze the region’s overall progress.
Key Features of the Development Plan
The development blueprint, presented to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, envisions transforming this vast area into a growth hub through strategic urban planning. In addition to fostering religious tourism, the plan includes the establishment of state-of-the-art industrial zones and innovation-driven knowledge parks. These features are expected to attract investment, boost the local economy, and contribute significantly to the state’s GDP.
The Chief Minister, after reviewing the comprehensive presentation, directed the Housing and Development Department to devise a plan that prioritizes benefits for residents, particularly the youth. The government is focused on ensuring that the proposed development not only preserves the religious and cultural heritage of the area but also provides ample opportunities for employment and education.
Districts Included in the Plan
The region will encompass seven districts:
- Prayagraj – Known for its Triveni Sangam (confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers), this district is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage sites.
- Varanasi – A city renowned for the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, and the Buddhist site of Sarnath.
- Chandauli – A district with strategic geographical and economic importance.
- Ghazipur – Known for the Ganga North Channel and its agricultural heritage.
- Jaunpur – A city with historical significance and rich cultural heritage.
- Mirzapur – Famous for its scenic beauty and religious sites.
- Bhadohi – Recognized globally for its handwoven carpets and textile industry.
These districts collectively house a population of over 3.37 crore and have an economic value of approximately $22.8 billion. The merger of these districts under a unified development authority is expected to create a synergistic effect, driving the overall growth of the region.
Context and National Vision
This initiative aligns with the recommendations made by the NITI Aayog, which has outlined a roadmap for India to achieve a $30 trillion economy by 2047. The commission has advocated for the formation of regional development programs across states to facilitate decentralized and inclusive growth. Uttar Pradesh’s focus on merging Varanasi and Prayagraj reflects its commitment to this vision, leveraging the historical, cultural, and economic strengths of the two iconic cities.
Religious and Cultural Significance
The plan underscores the immense religious and cultural importance of the region. Varanasi, considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is home to the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the iconic Kal Bhairav Temple, and Sarnath, a revered Buddhist site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Similarly, Prayagraj holds immense spiritual value with its Triveni Sangam, which attracts millions of pilgrims during the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Other districts like Ghazipur, known for its proximity to the Ganges, and Mirzapur, famous for its religious landmarks, will further contribute to the spiritual significance of this new region. Bhadohi’s global reputation as a carpet-weaving hub and Jaunpur’s historical monuments will add unique dimensions to the region’s appeal.
Implementation and Expected Benefits
The Varanasi-Prayagraj Regional Development Authority will be tasked with overseeing the implementation of the project. It will ensure that the proposed infrastructure and urban planning initiatives are executed efficiently. The development plan includes housing projects, modern transportation networks, and enhanced public amenities to improve the quality of life for residents.
By integrating modern technology with traditional values, the government aims to attract investments, promote tourism, and create a vibrant economy. The project’s multifaceted approach is expected to generate employment, particularly for the youth, while preserving the cultural and religious heritage of the region.
Way Forward
The creation of the Varanasi-Prayagraj religious and economic region marks a significant step toward redefining Uttar Pradesh’s development trajectory. As the first phase of the project unfolds, the government is optimistic about the transformative potential of this initiative. By striking a balance between modernity and tradition, the state aims to set a benchmark for regional development in India.
