Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced the formation of a new religious circuit aimed at preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of the state. This circuit will integrate seven districts: Prayagraj, Kashi (Varanasi), Chandauli, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mirzapur, and Bhadohi.
The decision was taken in a cabinet meeting held at the sidelines of Mahakumbh in Prayagraj .
The cabinet meeting also saw the announcement of infrastructure bonds for the municipal corporations of Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Agra. These bonds aim to accelerate urban development and improve civic amenities in these cities.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting held during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, the Chief Minister said, “The creation of this religious circuit will consolidate these districts as key destinations for religious tourism while safeguarding their historical and spiritual importance.”
The designation of these districts as religious regions aims to protect their unique spiritual identity. The initiative will support the preservation of temples, rituals, and traditions, ensuring that the region’s cultural heritage remains intact amid modernization.
“The religious circuit will not only attract pilgrims but also promote sustainable tourism by combining cultural preservation with infrastructural development,” the Chief Minister emphasized.
The announcement aligns with the government’s broader vision of enhancing Uttar Pradesh’s cultural identity and transforming it into a hub for religious tourism. The circuit is expected to draw pilgrims and tourists from across the country, boosting local economies and fostering cultural preservation.
Key infrastructure support
To complement the development of the religious circuit, CM Yogi detailed several infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and urban development in the included districts. These initiatives are part of a larger plan to ensure seamless travel and world-class amenities for visitors.
The Ganga Expressway will be extended to connect Prayagraj with Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Kashi, Chandauli, and Ghazipur, eventually linking with the Purvanchal Expressway. Additionally, plans are in place to further extend the expressway from Varanasi and Chandauli to Sonbhadra, improving integration with the national highway network.
Other key projects include the construction of a six-lane bridge over the Ganga River, a four-lane bridge connecting Prayagraj to Jhusi, and a signature bridge over the Yamuna River. These infrastructure advancements are expected to ease travel and bolster tourism in the religious circuit.
Political reactions
The decision to hold a cabinet meeting at the Maha Kumbh and announce the religious circuit has drawn criticism from the opposition. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav took a dig at the government, saying, “Kumbh is not a place for political programs and decisions. It is inappropriate to hold a cabinet meeting during such a sacred event.”
Here’s a closer look at the decions:
Infrastructure bonds at a Glance
•Municipal Corporations Involved: Prayagraj, Varanasi, Agra
•Purpose: Urban development and improved connectivity
•Key Projects: Bridges, expressway expansions, and multi-specialty hospitals
• Investment Proposal: Rs 10,000 crore for infrastructure projects in Moradabad and beyond
The new religious circuit and accompanying infrastructure projects mark a significant step in Uttar Pradesh’s development journey, blending cultural preservation with modernization. However, the political debates surrounding the initiative underline the challenges of balancing tradition with governance.
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