New Delhi: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has approved a total outlay of ₹69.21 crore for two major Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in Varanasi aimed at upgrading public spaces, strengthening tourism infrastructure and preserving the city’s rich cultural heritage.
BPCL signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for the projects in the presence of Ashok Kumar Tiwari, Mayor, Varanasi Nagar Nigam; S. Rajalingam, Commissioner, Varanasi Division; and Sanjay Khanna, Chairman & Managing Director, BPCL and Director (Refineries), additional charge.
₹48 Crore to Redevelop 119 Public Parks and Food Street Hubs
Under the first MoU, BPCL will provide ₹48 crore in CSR funding for the redevelopment and beautification of 119 public parks across Varanasi.
The project will be implemented in partnership with Kashi Integrated Parking & Recreational Foundation (KIPRF) and Varanasi Smart City Limited (VSCL).
The park redevelopment programme will include:
- Landscaped green areas and horticulture improvements
- Walking pathways
- Seating facilities
- Children’s play equipment
- Open gyms
- Improved lighting
- Drainage systems
- Other civic amenities
The initiative also includes the development of two modern Food Street Hubs at Sarnath and Maidagin.
The food street facilities will provide:
- Organised vending infrastructure
- Water and sanitation facilities
- CCTV surveillance
- Solar lighting
- Improved amenities for visitors and local vendors
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₹21.21 Crore Heritage Beautification Project
The second MoU, valued at ₹21.21 crore, has been signed between BPCL and the Varanasi Development Authority (VDA).
The project will focus on the redevelopment and beautification of important heritage streets, corridors and precincts across the city.
Key areas covered under the project include:
- Heritage corridor from Thatheri Heritage Gali to Kaal Bhairav Temple
- Façade enhancement between Godauliya Chauraha and Maidagin Chauraha
- Redevelopment of the lane leading to Manikarnikeshwar Temple at Manikarnika Ghat
The planned works will include heritage-sensitive streetscape improvements, stone paving, façade treatment, heritage-style lighting, signage, street furniture, murals and public art installations.
The project will also focus on drainage improvements and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Focus on Tourism, Heritage and Public Amenities
Together, the two CSR projects are aimed at improving urban infrastructure and public spaces while preserving Varanasi’s distinctive historical character.
The upgraded facilities are expected to benefit:
- Residents
- Pilgrims
- Tourists
- Local vendors
- Visitors to heritage and religious sites
The projects are also expected to strengthen Varanasi’s tourism and heritage infrastructure, while creating better public amenities and supporting livelihood opportunities for local vendors.
Projects to Be Completed Within 36 Months
Both projects have an implementation period of 36 months.
Upon completion, the redeveloped parks, food street hubs and heritage corridors are expected to contribute to the long-term development of Varanasi as a major cultural and spiritual tourism destination.
BPCL said the initiatives are part of its broader CSR focus on creating sustainable community assets, improving quality of life and supporting transformative development across the country. The projects also contribute to the preservation and promotion of India’s cultural heritage.
Senior Officials Attend MoU Signing Ceremony
The MoUs were signed at a ceremony held at the Taj Hotel in Varanasi.
The event was attended by senior officials, including:
- D. Parthasarathy, Executive Director (HRS), BPCL
- Himanshu Nagpal, Municipal Commissioner
- Purna Bora, Vice-Chairman, Varanasi Development Authority
- Amarendra Tiwari, Director, Kashi Integrated Parking & Recreational Foundation
- Senior officials from BPCL and the district administration
The initiatives underline BPCL’s commitment to supporting sustainable urban development and creating community assets through its CSR programmes.
About BPCL
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is a leading Indian public sector oil and gas company engaged in refining, fuel marketing and various energy-related businesses. The company also undertakes CSR initiatives focused on community development, public infrastructure and social welfare.
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