India's BPCL invests INR 692.1 million to renovate 119 parks and heritage precincts in Varanasi

en.Wedoany.com Reported - On September 7, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) signed two cooperation agreements for urban renewal projects in Varanasi, India, with a total investment of INR 692.1 million. The projects are funded through BPCL's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds and cover the development of 119 public parks, two food streets, and three key heritage precincts and corridors, with a planned completion period of 36 months.

The first agreement, with an investment of INR 480 million, is being implemented jointly by BPCL, Kashi Integrated Parking & Recreational Foundation, and Varanasi Smart City Limited to renovate 119 public parks across Varanasi. The scope of work includes landscaping, pedestrian walkways, seating, children's play areas, outdoor fitness equipment, lighting, horticulture, and drainage system upgrades, as well as the development of two modern food streets in Sarnath and Maidagin. The food streets will be equipped with standardized stalls, water supply and sanitation facilities, CCTV surveillance, solar lighting, and visitor amenities.

The second agreement, with an investment of INR 212.1 million, is being implemented by BPCL and the Varanasi Development Authority, focusing on the renovation of heritage precincts and urban public spaces. The scope of work covers the corridor from Thatheri Heritage Gali to Kaal Bhairav Temple, building facades along the stretch from Godauliya Chauraha to Maidagin Chauraha, and the lanes leading from Manikarnika Ghat to Manikarnikeshwar Temple. The project will implement heritage-style road construction, stone paving, building facade restoration, feature lighting, wayfinding signage systems, street furniture, murals, and public art installations, while also improving the pedestrian environment.

Both projects are centered on the renewal of urban public spaces and infrastructure. The 119-park project focuses on green spaces, drainage, lighting, and public amenities, while the heritage precinct project integrates roads, building facades, and pedestrian systems into a unified renovation effort. According to the current implementation plan, the total construction period for all works is 36 months, upon completion of which an urban public space renewal system covering community parks, tourist nodes, and heritage lanes will be established.