Infrastructure Development for Tourism

Why in News?

The Uttar Pradesh government will spend ₹4,560 crore in 2025–26 to upgrade roads connecting important religious and historical sites.

The plan covers 272 projects aimed at boosting religious tourism, improving infrastructure, and making travel easier for devotees.

About the Project:
- Major focus areas include: Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, Chitrakoot, Prayagraj, Naimisharanya, and Mirzapur.
  - These places are of significant religious, cultural, and mythological importance.
- Roads selected typically witness an average footfall of 5 lakh devotees per year.
- Execution will be managed jointly by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Religious Works Department.
- The Principal Secretary of Religious Works Department has approved the road strengthening efforts.
- Land Acquisition Considerations: Priority is given to routes that require minimal land acquisition to ensure fast-tracked implementation.
- Key Project Features:
  - Road widening and strengthening
  - Surface repairs and lane markings
  - Pedestrian sidewalks and carriageway upgrades
  - Beautification and expansion
  - Traffic management enhancements
  - Improved road safety standards
- Significance:
  - Reduced travel time and enhanced safety for pilgrims.
  - Smoother, more organized journeys for tourists and devotees.
  - Boost in religious tourism and local economic development.

Sarnath: Located 10 km northeast of Varanasi near the confluence of the Ganges and Varuna rivers, Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
Ganga Ghat: The ghats of Varanasi are iconic riverfront steps on the banks of the Ganges. The city has 88 ghats, most of which are used for bathing and religious rituals.
Shree Kashi Vishvanath Temple: One of India’s most revered temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a major spiritual center and an important pilgrimage site.
BHU (Banaras Hindu University): Situated in the historic city of Varanasi, also known as Kashi or the City of Lights, BHU is a landmark educational and spiritual hub surrounded by many important religious places.

Shri Krishna Janmbhoomi (Mathura): The sacred site marks the birthplace of Lord Krishna, believed to be where he manifested in a prison cell.
Shri Dwarkadhish Temple (Mathura): One of the oldest and largest temples in Mathura, dedicated to Lord Krishna in his Dwarkadhish (King of Dwarka) form.
Raman Reti, Gokul: Situated near Mathura, Raman Reti (or Raman Van) is believed to be the sacred land where young Krishna played in the sands.
Shri Banke Bihari Mandir (Vrindavan): A major Krishna temple in Vrindavan, known for its unique worship style and deep spiritual atmosphere. It attracts thousands of devotees daily.
ISKCON Temple, Vrindavan: Also known as the Sri Krishna Balrama Mandir, this is the first temple built by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), and a hub of Krishna devotion worldwide.
Shri Radha Rani Mandir (Barsana): Located in Barsana, this temple is dedicated to Radha Rani and is a major pilgrimage site in the Braj region, drawing large crowds during festivals like Holi.

Ram Ghat: A sacred ghat on the banks of the Mandakini River where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman are believed to have bathed. It is a hub of spiritual activity, especially during festivals.
Kamadgiri: A forested hill believed to be the original Chitrakoot. Devotees undertake a parikrama (circumambulation) around the hill, considering it extremely sacred.
Bharat Milap Mandir: Located on Kamadgiri Parikrama path, this temple marks the site where Bharat met Lord Ram to persuade him to return to Ayodhya.
Hanuman Dhara: A scenic spot on a hilltop where a stream flows over a Hanuman idol. It is believed that Lord Ram calmed Hanuman’s anger here after the burning of Lanka.
Sati Anusuya Ashram: An ancient ashram associated with the sage Atri and his wife Anusuya. It is surrounded by tranquil forests and natural springs.

Print PDF Print This Article

Prev Next