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100 _aDebnath, Roma Mitra
_960986
245 _aCatalysing Varanasi’s renaissance: VSCL’s Data-driven urban transformation
260 _aIndian Journal of Public Administration
300 _a72(1), Mar, 2026: p.144-161
520 _aThis case study examines Varanasi Smart City Limited’s (VSCL) transformative role in revitalising Varanasi under India’s Smart Cities Mission, launched in June 2015. Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, faces unique challenges like narrow streets and traffic congestion, necessitating a balanced approach to modernisation. With a financial allocation of approximately Rs. 10 billion (Rs. 1,017.69 crore), VSCL aimed to integrate modern urban solutions such as data-driven governance, smart infrastructure and digital amenities, while preserving the city’s ancient cultural heritage, including its historic ghats, temples and spiritual significance. The study documents VSCL’s initiatives, including the Kashi Integrated Command and Control Centre (KICCC), the ArGIS platform for geospatial planning and projects like the Rudraksh International Convention Centre, which exemplify data-centric urban planning. These efforts enhance civic services, tourism and sustainability, fostering community engagement and economic growth. The CEO’s decision-making dilemma centres on prioritising projects that harmonise innovation with heritage. Through visionary leadership and stakeholder collaboration, VSCL demonstrates a model for sustainable urban renaissance in historic cities, offering global insights into blending tradition with technology for inclusive development.- Reproduced https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/00195561261427553?_gl=1*1vn61z3*_up*MQ..*_ga*NDAzODY0ODQxLjE 3ODA0NzcwMjI.*_ga_60R758KFDG*czE3ODA0NzcwMjEkbzEkZzAkdDE3ODA0NzcwMjEkajYwJGwxJGg5NjgyNDQ3ODE.
650 _a• Data-driven governance, Smart city mission, Varanasi rebalances, Urban transformation.
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773 _aIndian Journal of Public Administration
942 _cAR