SPIRITUAL CORRIDORS
Why in News?
The Union Government recently announced the accelerated development of major Spiritual Corridors across Kashi (Varanasi), Ayodhya, and Mathura-Vrindavan.
Funding Schemes
- PRASHAD: Piligrim Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive.
- Swadesh Darshan & 2.0: Integrated development of theme-based tourism circuits.
- CBDD: Challenge Based Destination Development.
- SASCI: Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment.
Key Spiritual Corridors & Features
- Kashi Vishwanath Corridor: Connects the historic temple directly to the Ganga River, enhancing tourist mobility and public infrastructure.
- Ayodhya-Varanasi & Bharat Path: A 20-km dedicated stretch (₹900 crore) connecting Bharatkund to the grand Ram Temple.
- Prayagraj-Vindhyachal-Kashi: Integrates primary routes of Shakti and Shiva worship across Uttar Pradesh.
- Guru Gorakhnath Corridor: Newly proposed mega-circuit linking scattered holy sites from Bundelkhand to Gorakhpur.
- Mathura-Vrindavan-Shuk Teerth: Connects sites of the Krishna tradition utilizing the Bundelkhand Expressway.
Project Objectives & Socio-Economic Impact
- Aesthetic & Structural Balance: Upgrades visitor facilities while strictly preserving local cultural, architectural, and heritage identity.
- Economic Boost: Creates local employment opportunities for hospitality staff, tour guides, and traditional artisans.
- Environmental Sustainability: Integrates eco-friendly solar lighting, solid waste management systems, and sewage treatment plants.
- Mega Varanasi Project: The Cabinet cleared the ₹25,446 crore Ganga-Varuna elevated road network spanning 89 kilometres to seamlessly link regional highways to Kashi's holy spots.
