Varanasi: The UP govt will construct 15 modern bus queue shelters across Varanasi to strengthen the city’s urban transport infrastructure and improve passenger amenities.Designed as integrated public facility centres and bus stops, the shelters will offer safe, smart and environment-friendly services. They will be equipped with advanced technology, green features and EV charging facilities.Municipal commissioner Himanshu Nagpal said the shelters will feature smart LED displays, comfortable seating, mobile charging points, EV charging stations and free Wi-Fi. CCTV cameras will be installed at every location to enhance passenger safety, while solar energy will be used to meet power requirements. Advertising panels will also be installed to generate revenue for the maintenance and operation of the facilities.Varanasi Smart City CGM Amarendra Tiwari said the shelters have been planned keeping in view the daily needs of passengers. They will provide protection from heat, rain and cold, along with wheelchair-friendly access for persons with disabilities and senior citizens. Adequate lighting will also be ensured for night-time safety.The shelters will be equipped with clean drinking water facilities, city maps for easy navigation and public toilets on a user-fee basis. Digital display boards will provide real-time bus information, including arrival and departure timings, temperature, date and other important updates. Each shelter will have an emergency information system to facilitate quick assistance during emergencies.The project has also been designed as a revenue-generation model. Revenue will be earned through advertising panels, digital LED advertisements, EV charging stations, retail kiosks and other public utility services.The proposed shelters will be constructed at Englishia Line near Kashi Vidyapith Gate No. 2, Kachahari Crossing, under Lahartara–Chowkaghat flyover, Ravindrapuri near Acharya Ramchandra Shukla Crossing, Maidagin Crossing near Town Hall, Bhelupur near Jal Kal office, Havelia Crossing, Sarnath Crossing, Domri Road in Ramnagar, Banaras Station Road, Namo Ghat Road near the police outpost, Bada Lalpur in front of the Trade Facilitation Centre, Fatman Road, Rath Yatra–Kamachha Road and Sigra near the Smart City office.
