The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) and the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) have issued a directive to contractors to accelerate ongoing road projects and ensure their timely completion ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027. The order was given during a recent review meeting chaired by NTKMA Commissioner Shekhar Singh and NMC Commissioner Manisha Khatri, where the progress of key infrastructure developments was evaluated.
Strict Action Against Delays
Authorities took a firm stance on project delays and quality shortcomings, warning contractors of strict measures, including show cause notices and financial penalties, for failing to meet deadlines or prescribed standards. Officials expressed concern over the sluggish pace of road construction, road restoration, underground utility projects, and gaps in monsoon preparedness.
The administrators emphasized that a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced against negligence, given the scale and urgency of Kumbh-related preparations. Contractors have been instructed to mobilize additional manpower and machinery to expedite execution and ensure completion within stipulated timelines. Officials also warned that penalties could be increased if visible improvements are not observed on the ground.
Quality and Safety Concerns
The review highlighted issues identified during recent site inspections, including incomplete works, quality lapses, and inadequate safety measures. All executing agencies have been directed to immediately rectify deficiencies and minimize public inconvenience during construction. The commissioners also instructed officials from the NMC's public works department and other relevant departments, stressing that accountability extends beyond contractors. Officials responsible for monitoring and supervision will also face action if lapses are found.
“Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 is a project of immense scale, and timely creation of quality infrastructure is non-negotiable. All agencies must work in mission mode with better coordination and faster decision-making,” said officials.
NMC Commissioner's Stance
NMC Commissioner Manisha Khatri stated that the civic body has adopted a strict stance on delays and quality issues, adding that no compromise will be allowed on timelines, safety, and execution standards. Officials said all departments have been asked to accelerate works and ensure that road infrastructure projects are completed as per schedule.
Twenty-eight road projects with a total length of 120 kilometers are being carried out by the Nashik Municipal Corporation in preparation for the upcoming Kumbh Mela. The road projects are estimated to cost Rs 1,270 crore.
