Varanasi: WB-aided tourism project at Sarnath Circuit likely to be ready by year-end

VARANASI: The World Bank-aided Pro-Poor Tourism Development Project at Sarnath Buddhist Circuit is likely to be completed by the end of this year.
Varanasi Development Authority (VDA), which is supervising the Rs 72.63 crore-project of the state Tourism Department, said work is underway at a fast pace to complete it at the earliest. The project focuses on generating huge employment for the local communities.
Earlier on July 7 this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid foundation stone of the project while inaugurating and laying stone of multiple projects worth over Rs 1,800 crore at Dr Sampurnanand Sports Stadium in Sigra area.
VDA vice-chairman Isha Duhan said the project is expected to be completed by the end of this year. Besides facilitating tourists, steps are afoot to ensure sustainable livelihoods of the local residents.
“With the project, the income of people living near Sarnath will increase and new employment opportunities will be created. Local hawkers and vendors will be rehabilitated and special customized mobile vehicles will be arranged for them. Kiosks with a heritage look will be put up to facilitate the visitors. Besides, there will be shops for souvenirs and products under Geographical Indication (GI) and One District One Product (ODOP),” she informed.
The VDA official further said development works under the project include beautification of road crossings, interconnection and restoration of 29 monuments, illumination of roads and heritage sites, advanced parking facility, pedestrian paths and public seating areas for tourists.