Yogi Government Approves ₹450 Crore for Comprehensive Re-development of Ancient Kunds in Varanasi
In a major push towards ecological and cultural revival, the UP cabinet has greenlit a massive project to clean, restore, and beautify historic water bodies across Kashi.
The Uttar Pradesh government has sanctioned a budget of ₹450 crore for the holistic restoration of nearly 100 ancient water tanks (kunds) scattered across Varanasi. Historically central to the cultural and ritualistic landscape of Kashi—such as the Suraj Kund, Lat Bhairav Kund, and Pishachmochan Kund—many of these sites had suffered from neglect, encroachment, and severe siltation over the decades.
The ambitious project, spearheaded by the Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) in collaboration with IIT-BHU engineering experts, will deploy advanced bioremediation techniques to treat wastewater before it enters the kunds. Additionally, the surrounding areas will be developed into landscaped community parks equipped with heritage lighting, walking pathways, and seating arrangements for local residents.
Local heritage enthusiasts and pandas have welcomed the administrative intervention, noting that reviving these sacred water bodies will restore the traditional Panchakoshi Yatra route to its pristine glory. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed authorities to complete the first phase of restoration ahead of the upcoming winter tourist season, ensuring strict adherence to environmental norms and timely execution.
