The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has formally approached the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) seeking a financial allocation of Rs 120 crore for the repair and renovation of bathing ghats along the Godavari river. These ghats were originally constructed during the Kumbh Mela in 2015 and have since experienced significant deterioration.
Urgent Need for Restoration
The civic body has emphasized the pressing requirement to restore the aging riverfront infrastructure ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela scheduled for 2027. An NMC official stated, “The ghats need strengthening and refurbishment before the next Kumbh. Repairs will enhance safety for devotees and help maintain the sanctity and usability of the bathing areas.”
NMC commissioner Manisha Khatri has written to the NTKMA requesting the necessary funds to undertake the repair works. In her communication, she highlighted that the condition of several ghats has deteriorated over time and requires immediate intervention, given the massive footfall expected during the event.
Funding Discussion in Upcoming Meeting
NTKMA commissioner Shekhar Singh confirmed that the issue of funding for the repairs of existing ghats will be placed before the next meeting of the Kumbh Mela Authority for discussion and approval.
Projected Surge in Visitor Numbers
Authorities have projected a sharp increase in the number of visitors compared to the previous Kumbh held in 2015. Officials estimate that nearly 10 lakh sadhus are likely to arrive in Nashik for the upcoming event, a significant rise from the approximately 2.5 lakh sadhus who participated in the last Kumbh. Similarly, the number of devotees visiting Nashik is expected to grow from around 2 crore in 2015 to nearly 8 crore in 2027, while about 4 crore devotees are anticipated to visit Trimbakeshwar.
The administration has also prioritized the restoration of the existing ghats to ensure safety and smooth movement of pilgrims during the event.
Infrastructure Condition and Proposed Works
The bathing ghats constructed for the 2015 Kumbh span nearly 5 kilometers along the Godavari riverbanks. These structures were developed to accommodate heavy crowds and reduce congestion at Ramkund. However, officials noted that wear and tear over the years, along with exposure to water flow and seasonal variations, has affected portions of the infrastructure.
During a presentation on Kumbh preparations at a recent general body meeting, Commissioner Khatri informed corporators that the civic body would require Rs 120 crore to undertake comprehensive repair works. According to civic officials, the proposed works include structural repairs, resurfacing of steps, improvement of access pathways, and upgrading basic amenities at the ghats. The aim is to restore the facilities to their original condition and ensure a better experience for pilgrims visiting the city.
Timeline for Simhastha Kumbh Mela
The Simhastha Kumbh Mela will formally begin with the flag-hoisting ceremony on October 31 this year, while the three key Amrit Snan (royal bathing) dates are scheduled between August and September 2027. During these days, lakhs of sadhus and crores of devotees gather at Ramkund and other ghats along the Godavari to take a holy dip.
