Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday said the development works being undertaken in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar ahead of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela would transform the two places.
Modern infrastructure is being planned there to meet requirements for the next 25 to 30 years, he said.
During an inspection of ongoing projects in Trimbakeshwar and Nashik, both on the banks of Godavari river, Fadnavis directed officials to ensure that all works are completed within the stipulated time and maintain quality standards.
The chief minister visited the Darshan Path and Goda Ghat areas in Trimbakeshwar, Dwarka Circle in Nashik and Ozar airport to review the progress of the projects, said an official release.
Fadnavis said the projects were not limited to preparations for the Kumbh Mela but would strengthen the infrastructure of Nashik and Trimbakeshwar for the next 25 to 30 years.
The works would improve transport facilities, infrastructure and amenities for devotees, tourists and local residents, he said, adding that airport-related development projects would also gain momentum in the next phase.
The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela, a mega Hindu religious congregation held once every 12 years in the twin holy towns, will take place from October 31, 2026, to July 24, 2028.
Fadnavis said the projects were being implemented in coordination with the municipal corporation, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), Simhastha Kumbh Mela Authority, district administration, police and other departments.
The chief minister appreciated the coordination among the various agencies and praised the MSRDC for undertaking important infrastructure projects, the release said.
At Trimbakeshwar, Fadnavis reviewed the work on the Darshan Path and Goda Ghat. He said the projects were challenging but progressing in a planned manner and would improve facilities for the growing number of devotees visiting the religious town.
The works would also help strengthen Trimbakeshwar’s importance as a religious tourism destination, he said.
At Dwarka Circle in Nashik, the chief minister reviewed the progress of the ongoing project and was informed that it was progressing rapidly and was expected to be completed ahead of schedule, it said.
Officials also briefed him on measures taken to improve water drainage at the junction. Drainage tests were conducted during the current monsoon to ensure that rainwater did not accumulate and flowed out smoothly, the release said.
Fadnavis subsequently inspected the expansion work at Ozar airport and directed officials to ensure adequate infrastructure and essential facilities for devotees and tourists expected to visit Nashik for the Kumbh Mela, it added.
(PTI)
