A year of demolition amid protests, Varanasi’s historic Dalmandi area set for road widening

A year-long demolition campaign in Varanasi's historic Dalmandi area, near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, has concluded, according to the Public Works Department (PWD). The drive, which faced opposition from local traders, political parties, and nearly 300 court cases, was completed by the agency. The project widened the road from 3-4 meters to 17.4 meters, affecting around 187 buildings in the 650-meter stretch that once housed over 500 shops.

Of these, 70-75 percent were partially demolished, while two mosques were fully and four partially torn down. The road now ends approximately 300 meters from the temple.

PWD Executive Engineer K K Singh explained that the demolition, which began in October last year, has been finalized, with all 300 court cases related to the project now resolved. Police and administrative teams visited the area to elucidate the reason behind the project, while heightened security was maintained during the demolition.

Despite the administration's claim that property owners were compensated, traders who rented shops allege they received no financial aid. Many shopkeepers, whose businesses have been adversely affected, are now grappling to make ends meet, with some turning to tempos or working in others' shops.

With Dalmandi, a market believed to be at least 200 years old, now largely deserted, shop owners are yet to start repairing the partially demolished buildings. The PWD initiated the demolition drive after serving notices to affected properties in October last year. A help desk was set up at Chowk police station to assist property owners.

Officials stated that the widening is necessary to alleviate congestion and enhance access to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and nearby ghats, following a surge in tourist and pilgrim numbers since the temple corridor was developed.