A pilgrim returning to Kashi after a long absence could be shocked by the astonishing changes that have occurred in the eternal City of Lights. Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi was chosen to represent Kashi in the Parliament, it has remained a point of interest. Thanks to this unique situation, Kashi's days of being treated as a tourism cash cow with all of its infrastructure requirements neatly ignored are long gone.

Enhancing Connectivity Throughout Kashi
The improvement of road connectivity to and via Varanasi has received significant attention. The much-needed 6-lane expansion project of the Varanasi - Prayagraj portion of NH-19 has begun, and this widening would greatly ease traffic and congestion for vehicles travelling in the direction of Varanasi. A 119 crore project to rehabilitate Rural Link Road has been started, and another 3-lane flyover over the Varanasi-Ghazipur Road has been opened. All of these initiatives contribute to fewer traffic bottlenecks.

Additionally, the Panchkosi Parikrama Marg is being enlarged, which will further reduce traffic on this major artery. Additionally, Godaulia now offers secure, congested-free parking thanks to the opening of a multilevel parking garage.

The Kashi Mahakal Express has been launched, connecting the three Jyotirlinga pilgrim centres of Varanasi, Ujjain, and Omkareshwar, to further boost Kashi's position as a major pilgrimage hub and connect it to other significant pilgrim sites across the nation. IRCTC operates this corporate train, which offers the greatest in travel convenience. The on-board passenger entertainment system, modular bio-toilets, fire and smoke detection and suppressant system, and comfortable berths make the commute enjoyable. It is a fully AC train.