Varanasi: Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) organised the ‘Varanasi Rising Summit – Infrastructure, Investment, Impact’ on Friday, bringing together experts, industry representatives and govt officials to discuss the city’s changing urban landscape, real estate growth, infrastructure development and future urban needs.The summit focused on key areas of Varanasi’s development, including investment, housing, hospitality, connectivity, infrastructure, mobility and heritage conservation. Participants deliberated on how the city’s rapid urban expansion can be supported through better town planning, stronger infrastructure and improved connectivity, while ensuring that its historic and cultural identity is preserved.The inaugural session began with a knowledge session attended by district magistrate Satyendra Kumar and divisional commissioner S Rajalingam.The first panel discussion, ‘From Heritage to High Growth: Real Estate’s Role in Shaping Kashi’, examined the role of real estate in shaping Varanasi’s development. The discussion covered public-private collaboration, policy and regulatory measures, improved connectivity, future-ready urban zones, rising housing demand and emerging trends in residential real estate.The second panel discussion, ‘Kashi Spiritual Economy: Building Hospitality for the Next Decade’, focused on the growing need for quality hotels, serviced stays and other accommodation options in the city. Panellists discussed the role of hospitality in improving the experience of pilgrims and tourists, along with challenges related to infrastructure, connectivity and last-mile mobility.The third panel discussion, ‘From Heritage City to Future City: Designing Infrastructure for Growth, Mobility and Livability’, addressed Varanasi’s infrastructure requirements and future development needs. Experts discussed challenges linked to urban growth, integrated town planning, traffic management, mobility, last-mile connectivity and the need to balance modern development with heritage conservation.The session included representatives and experts from Varanasi Municipal Corporation, Varanasi development authorities, NHAI, National Highways Logistics Management Limited, Airports Authority of India, IIT-BHU and the real estate sector.Speaking at the event, architect Rishabh Chandra Jain said that while Varanasi continues to develop, preserving its ancient heritage, old lanes and historic buildings must remain a priority. He said govt, administration, local communities and industry must work together to achieve this balance.Referring to rising congestion and traffic in the old lanes, Jain suggested that dedicated clusters with better infrastructure could be developed on the city’s outskirts for traditional businesses such as Banarasi sarees and gold and silver jewellery. He said relocation plans should not be limited to compensation but must include a comprehensive strategy that protects existing businesses and livelihoods.
