by Team Clarion
NEW DELHI/VARANASI — Fresh demolition notices issued to six mosques in Varanasi’s Dalmandi area have intensified concerns among local residents and mosque committees, who fear further losses under the road-widening project linked to the Kashi Vishwanath corridor.
According to residents and mosque management committees, the six mosques fall within the alignment of the proposed road expansion. The latest development comes after months of demolition activity in the predominantly Muslim neighbourhood, where several homes, shops and religious structures have already been affected.
Officials recently conducted a final measurement survey at the six mosques. Following the exercise, notices were reportedly served to the respective committees, informing them that demolition action could be undertaken after Muharram.
The mosques identified during the survey are Mirza Karimullah Beg Mosque, Sangmarmar Wali Mosque, Ali Raza Khan Mosque, Nisaran Mosque, Rangeele Shah Mosque and Langde Hafiz Mosque. Residents say the structures are decades old, while some are regarded as sites of historical significance.
The survey forms part of a plan to widen a 650-metre stretch connected to the Kashi Vishwanath area. Authorities aim to expand the road to approximately 60 feet to improve accessibility and traffic movement.
Residents affected by the project say the impact extends beyond infrastructure development. Traders claim they have lost their livelihoods, while several families say they were forced to vacate homes demolished during earlier phases of the exercise.
“Our shops have been removed and many families have suffered losses. People are worried about what will happen next,” said a local shopkeeper.
Another resident added, “We understand the need for development, but people also need proper arrangements before their homes and businesses are taken away.”
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net. Read the full story here.
