Former Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust President Nagendra Pandey has eulogized the massive overhauls experienced in Varanasi during the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a radiant example of progress driven by wisdom and efficient management.
In an interview with IANS, Pandey said that the change in the holy city is self-explanatory and doesn't need official documents or media reports to prove its magnitude.
“The development in the Varanasi parliamentary constituency doesn’t require reading newspapers or reports. One only needs to walk around the city. Even a young visitor to Varanasi is surprised to see the transformation. Roads that were once only five metres wide have now been expanded to ten metres. Narrow lanes have turned into smooth, four-lane roads. This is the reality people see and experience,” he said.
Pandey pointed out the direct relationship between the increase in infrastructure and local livelihood improvement. He discussed how greater connectivity and urban planning have assisted in increasing income opportunities for locals.
So many flyovers have come up in Banaras in a decade. Roads have been built at a tremendous rate, linking cities such as Ghazipur, Mirzapur, Ramnagar, and Allahabad. If you talk to hoteliers or taxi drivers, you will hear how their revenues have grown. Someone who used to operate a small tea stall has constructed a hotel today. That's the magnitude of change," he added.
Aside from urban growth, Pandey also referred to notable advances in education and health. He mentioned the establishment of modern institutions and enhanced public facilities as indicators of substantial growth.
"Colleges and schools have improved infrastructure these days. Opening of Ishwar Medical College and a big Ayurveda college here is a proof of our advancement. Even our railway station and airport now look world-class, providing ten times the facilities that were previously available," he added.
Marking Prime Minister Modi’s 50th visit to Varanasi, which included the laying of foundation stones for 44 development projects, Pandey acknowledged the PM’s long-standing dedication to the city.
Earlier, the Prime Minister told that Maa Ganga has invited him to Kashi, and we think that there must be a divine agenda in his work. He has not come here with any vested agenda but for serving—whether by giving Ayushman cards or putting welfare schemes into practice. He doesn't make promises, he keeps them," Pandey added.
Referring to the current debates pertaining to the Waqf (Amendment) Act, Pandey wanted to set the record straight and provide context on its wider purport.
Some are creating misinformation regarding the Waqf Act. This amendment was not suddenly raised. It was thought out well. There are numerous marginalized 'Pasmanda' Muslims who were earlier overlooked. This law implements equality and inclusiveness for them. Critics are usually those abusing the system for their benefit," he added.
He concluded his statements with the assertion that the beneficial ripple effects of the revised Waqf Act will become apparent over time, benefiting those who've been on the periphery for too long at last receiving their rightful share.
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