Nashik: In light of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, a high-level meeting approved development projects totaling Rs 275 crore as part of the plan prepared for Trimbakeshwar, under the Pilgrimage Development Scheme.
The meeting, chaired by State Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik through the Tardishya system, included the presence of Divisional Revenue Commissioner Dr. Praveen Gedam, District Collector Jalaj Sharma, Chief Officer of Trimbakeshwar Municipality Shreya Devchakke, and various departmental officials.
Trimbakeshwar was granted A-class pilgrimage site status just a month and a half ago. The municipality has drafted a comprehensive plan of approximately Rs 1150 crore for the Kumbh Mela. It was agreed during the meeting to undertake projects worth around Rs 275 crore under the Pilgrimage Development Scheme, with a recommendation for remaining projects to be incorporated into the plans of the relevant departments.
The Kumbh Mela plan encompasses the construction of Darshan Path, new roads, renovation of ghats, installation of welcome arches, beautification efforts, river conservation, a solid waste management project, an enhanced water supply scheme for Trimbakeshwar, and the creation of a parking facility, among other initiatives. Officials indicated that clarification on which projects will be part of the pilgrimage site development scheme will follow once the meeting minutes are received.
A parking lot is proposed to be built on an area of three acres, along with plans for some shops at that location. Saunik recommended that 90 percent of the space be allocated for parking to ensure effective planning, addressing concerns raised during the meeting regarding insufficient parking space if too many shops were added.
Preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, scheduled for 2027 in Nashik-Trimbakeshwar, have been expedited at the administrative level. Meeting sessions have commenced, and discussions regarding development projects related to the Kumbh Mela took place during a video conference led by Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik.
