Intensive Demolition Operations Underway in Dalmandi, Varanasi
Dalmandi Demolition Update
As the deadline for the Dalmandi project in Varanasi approaches, the local administration is ramping up its demolition efforts. This Saturday morning, significant actions commenced at 11 AM, involving a joint operation by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Varanasi Development Authority (VDA), which includes three bulldozers. Officials have reported that out of the 45 buildings targeted for demolition, 25 have already been registered, while the municipal corporation has declared 20 buildings as dilapidated.
Security Measures in Place
A substantial presence of paramilitary forces and police from various stations has been deployed at the site to ensure the operation proceeds smoothly. According to K.K. Singh, the Executive Engineer of PWD, today's actions are focused on 45 buildings, and once completed, a total of 110 buildings will have been demolished. To date, the department has distributed compensation amounting to ₹39 crores.
Timeline for Project Completion
K.K. Singh has indicated that the land in Dalmandi will be cleared by May 31. The goal is to complete the project by August 31. This ₹225 crore initiative aims to widen the 650-meter-long Dalmandi lane between the new road and Chowk to 17.4 meters. Initially, 181 buildings and six mosques were affected, but now only 71 buildings and six mosques remain for demolition.
Project Completion Expected in Three Months
The PWD has been working on the widening project in Dalmandi for several months. The demolition of the remaining 71 buildings and six mosques is expected to be completed this month, with the entire project anticipated to be finished within the next three months. The demolition efforts began on October 29, 2025, and today, 300 police officers equipped with helmets and safety gear are maintaining law and order in the area.