The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) has sanctioned Rs44 crore for the repair and strengthening of bathing ghats along the Godavari river, a significant step in preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela scheduled in 2027.
Funds Channeled via Nashik Municipal Corporation
The funds will be channeled through the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC), which will carry out the restoration work in the first phase. Earlier, the NMC had proposed a Rs120-crore plan to refurbish all ghats constructed during the 2015 Kumbh Mela.
Urgent Repairs Prioritized
Officials, however, stated that the initial allocation of Rs44 crore would be used to address urgent repairs and ensure that major ghats are safe and operational ahead of the mega religious gathering. Divisional Commissioner and Kumbh authority chairman Praveen Gedam confirmed the update, emphasizing that priority would be given to strengthening aging structures and upgrading basic facilities at key bathing locations to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims.
Deteriorating Condition of Ghats
According to sources, Kumbh authority commissioner Shekhar Singh presented the proposal after the civic body highlighted the deteriorating condition of several ghats along the riverbanks. “These structures have experienced considerable wear and tear due to heavy use and environmental factors,” he said.
Ghats Span 5 km Along Godavari
Spanning nearly 5 km along the Godavari river, the ghats were originally developed to handle heavy pilgrim inflow and ease congestion at Ramkund, the main bathing site. With a much larger turnout expected in 2027, the authority has prioritized their restoration alongside plans for new infrastructure.
“Additional funds may be sanctioned in subsequent phases as preparations progress. The current works are expected to improve structural stability, enhance accessibility, and help maintain the sanctity of the bathing areas during the festival,” an official said.
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