Nashik Unveils ₹7500 Crore Infrastructure Plan for 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela, Aims for ‘Digital Technology Kumbh’
Nashik is gearing up to host the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027 with a massive ₹7500 crore infrastructure plan. The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) and the Maharashtra government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, are working together to ensure the event is a grand success. The preparations are divided into two key areas: the NMC’s infrastructure development and the CM’s strategic directives for a technologically advanced and well-organized Kumbh.
NMC’s Infrastructure Development Plan
The Nashik Municipal Corporation has unveiled an ambitious blueprint to transform the city’s infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Kumbh Mela. Here are the key components of the plan:
- Land Acquisition and Sadhugram Development:
The NMC plans to acquire and develop 700 acres of land in Tapovana for Sadhugram, a dedicated area for ascetics and pilgrims. This will include facilities for accommodation, healthcare, and other essential services. - Road Network Expansion:
A major focus will be on enhancing Nashik’s road network, with plans to develop and widen 350 kilometers of roads to manage the expected influx of millions of devotees. - River and Ghat Upgrades:
The Godavari River, central to the Kumbh Mela, will see significant improvements, including river channel cleaning and the widening of ghats to ensure smooth rituals and crowd management. - Sewage and Water Supply Enhancements:
New sewage treatment plants and water supply systems will be constructed to cater to the increased demand during the event. - Comprehensive Surveys and Planning:
A consultant will be appointed to conduct detailed surveys, including tree surveys, electric pole assessments, and mapping of temporary spaces. The findings will inform a detailed project report covering internal and external vehicle bases, space reservation, and infrastructure requirements. - Health and Safety Measures:
Adequate healthcare facilities, firefighting services, and police stations will be established at key locations, including Sadhugram and other pilgrimage sites. - Public Address System:
A robust communication system will be implemented to ensure timely dissemination of information to citizens and pilgrims during the event.
The NMC is also analyzing data from the 2015 Simhastha Kumbh Mela to identify areas for improvement and ensure a seamless experience in 2027.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ Strategic Directives
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has laid out a visionary plan to make the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela a ‘Digital Technology Kumbh.’ His directives focus on leveraging technology and meticulous planning to enhance the pilgrimage experience. Key initiatives include:
- Creation of a Kumbh Mela Authority:
A dedicated authority will be established to oversee the planning and execution of the event, ensuring better coordination and organization. - Learning from Prayagraj Mahakumbh:
Officials have been instructed to review the preparations and facilities of the Prayagraj Mahakumbh Mela and incorporate best practices for Nashik. - Digital Technology Integration:
The event will maximize the use of AI for crowd management, traffic planning, and surveillance. A digital exhibition will also be set up to engage devotees and provide an immersive experience. - Drone Survey for Coastal Road:
A drone survey will be conducted to explore the feasibility of building a coastal road along the Godavari River to ease congestion. - Religious Corridors:
Development of corridors connecting Nashik to nearby religious sites like Trimbakeshwar, Shirdi, Vani, Shanishinganapur, and Mangitungi to enhance the spiritual journey of pilgrims. - Enhanced Transport Infrastructure:
Comprehensive reviews of road, rail, and air transport services in Nashik will be conducted to ensure seamless connectivity. - Analysis of 2015 Kumbh Mela:
Data from the 2015 Simhastha Kumbh Mela will be analyzed to improve planning for the 2027 event.
A Landmark Event in the Making
The 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela is set to be a landmark event, blending tradition with modernity. With the NMC’s infrastructure overhaul and the CM’s focus on digital technology and crowd management, Nashik aims to create a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for millions of devotees.
