With two years remaining for the 2027 Kumbh Mela in Nashik, the city’s Municipal Corporation (NMC) is preparing to begin major infrastructure projects from April. These projects, estimated at Rs 7,500 crore, are aimed at ensuring necessary facilities are in place before the religious gathering. The plan has been submitted to the state government for approval, and work is expected to take two years for completion.
The proposal includes the construction of bridges, sewage treatment plants (STPs), and land acquisition for Sadhugram, a designated area for pilgrims and sadhus. The plan involves constructing nine bridges—five over the Godavari River and four on its tributaries. The tender process will begin for two key bridges on the Godavari River: one parallel to the existing structure near Laxminarayan Temple and another adjacent to the current bridge at Ramwadi. These will help manage increased traffic and movement during the event.
To support these projects, the municipal commissioner has allocated Rs 46 crore in the 2025-26 budget for the construction of two bridges. The NMC has also made a financial provision of Rs 400 crore as part of its 25% contribution to the overall budget for Kumbh Mela infrastructure. This funding is planned across the current and next fiscal year budgets to ensure phased execution.
In addition to bridges, the NMC plans to acquire over 250 acres of land for Sadhugram. This area will provide temporary settlements with sanitation facilities, water supply, and shelters for pilgrims. The acquisition process is expected to begin soon to ensure adequate space for visitors.
A crucial part of the plan is constructing two STPs at Makhmalabad and Kamatwada. These plants will manage wastewater during the event, helping maintain hygiene and preventing environmental contamination. Since these projects require more than two years to complete, construction will start immediately to meet deadlines.
Municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri stated that the NMC will begin key infrastructure work in April. The proposal for immediate execution will be submitted for approval to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in an upcoming meeting in Mumbai. This meeting will review the progress of preparations and finalize approvals for various projects.
The estimated Rs 7,500 crore budget includes contributions from the state government, the central government, and the NMC. While the NMC has allocated Rs 400 crore, additional funds are expected from the state and central governments to support infrastructure development. Financial planning and phased fund disbursement will be essential to keeping the projects on schedule and preventing delays.
These projects aim to accommodate the large crowds expected during the Kumbh Mela. New roads and bridges will improve movement within Nashik, and STPs will ensure cleanliness. Land acquisition for Sadhugram will help house thousands of sadhus and pilgrims, reducing congestion in other parts of the city.
By starting work in April, the NMC plans to complete critical projects well before the 2027 Kumbh Mela. This approach is intended to ensure proper infrastructure, including transportation, sanitation, and accommodation, is in place before the event. The civic body’s efforts are focused on managing the event efficiently and creating organized arrangements for pilgrims and visitors.
