Varanasi: Smart Management for Historic Lanes
Varanasi, known as the “city of lanes,” has initiated a transformative traffic management plan to enhance pedestrian navigation and crowd intelligence. Developed under India’s Make in India initiative, the AI-based ‘Better-Way’ app aims to improve pedestrian experiences in densely populated areas. Selected from various global cities by the Toyota Mobility Foundation’s Sustainable Cities Challenge, Varanasi is working closely with local authorities and five chosen companies to implement effective crowd and traffic management solutions. Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal emphasizes the city’s commitment to smart tourism, ensuring safe access to pilgrimage sites amidst increasing tourist traffic. The ‘Better-Way’ app will offer alternative routes and highlight cultural sites, fostering economic opportunities for local businesses. Currently in user testing, this innovative solution promises to balance crowd distribution while preserving the unique identity of Varanasi’s historic lanes, making it an essential tool for both locals and visitors.
