Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) [India], August 22 : Development work on the Varanasi Development Authority's (VDA) first integrated gated city, the 'Anand Kashi Housing Scheme (Phase 1)', is progressing in the Kallipur area, with 1,004 residential plots and a range of modern urban amenities planned under the project.
Spread across approximately 456,398.69 square metres, the housing scheme is being developed with a focus on systematic urban planning, modern infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
The first phase will include 1,004 residential plots, three group housing plots, 108 commercial plots, one educational plot, one healthcare plot, one community centre, two utility plots and 18 green area patches.
The residential plots will be developed in four categories of 72 square metres, 162 square metres, 200 square metres and 288 square metres.
To improve connectivity within the township, roads measuring 24, 18, 12 and nine metres in width are being developed. Water supply, sewerage, electricity, stormwater drainage and other civic infrastructure are also being developed in various stages.
A central park spread across approximately two hectares is planned as the main green space of the township. It will feature a central plaza with a Nataraja statue and water fountains, along with open lawns, an amphitheatre, children's play area, meditation garden, senior citizen zone, flower garden, jogging track and walking paths.
A pedestrian-friendly market plaza and commercial facilities are also proposed around the central park, with four major pedestrian entrances connecting the area to the township.
The project also places emphasis on environmental conservation, with a Miyawaki forest proposed over approximately 3.71 acres near the project boundary.
According to the VDA, at least 15 per cent of the total project area will be developed as green space, with initiatives such as the Miyawaki forest forming part of the township's environmental planning.
VDA Vice President Purna Bora said the 'Anand Kashi Housing Scheme (Phase 1)' is an ambitious project aimed at providing modern urban amenities while maintaining environmental balance and systematic residential development.
As the Authority's first integrated gated city being developed in nearly 30 years, the project seeks to combine Kashi's cultural and Vedic heritage with modern infrastructure and residential facilities, Bora said.
RERA registration for the project is in its final stages, and the Authority aims to begin the registration process by the end of August.
The VDA is developing 'Anand Kashi' as a residential destination that combines planned infrastructure, modern amenities, green spaces and the cultural identity of Varanasi.