Varanasi Dalmandi Widening Project: Demolition Likely After Eid

In Varanasi, preparations are underway to restart the long-pending Dalmandi road widening project, with officials indicating that major demolition and construction activities may resume after the Eid festivities. The move has raised concerns among local traders and residents who fear that this year’s celebration could be the last Eid in the historic narrow lanes of Dalmandi before the area undergoes major transformation.

The ambitious project aims to widen the 650-metre Dalmandi road from a congested narrow lane to a 17.4-metre-wide road, significantly improving connectivity in the old city and creating a smoother access route to Gate No. 4 of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham. The project, estimated to cost around ₹224 crore, requires the acquisition and demolition of nearly 187 buildings, including shops and residential structures along the route.

Officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) have already begun acquiring properties and compensating owners. According to reports, several buildings have been purchased and demolition has taken place in phases under heavy police security. The administration has also used drones and additional forces in sensitive stretches of the market to maintain law and order during earlier demolition drives.

Dalmandi, one of the oldest and busiest markets of Varanasi, is known for its dense network of lanes, traditional shops and vibrant festive atmosphere, especially during Eid and Ramadan. However, once the widening work resumes after the festive period, many of these historic lanes and shopfronts could disappear as the road is expanded to accommodate better traffic movement and easier access for pilgrims visiting the temple corridor.

Local traders say that while improved infrastructure is important for the city, the project also marks the end of a historic chapter for Dalmandi’s old market culture. For many residents and shopkeepers, this year’s Eid could carry special emotional significance as the area prepares for a major urban transformation.

Authorities, meanwhile, maintain that the widening project will reduce congestion in the old city and provide a direct route for visitors heading towards the Kashi Vishwanath temple area, easing pressure on other busy roads of Varanasi.