Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated multiple development projects worth Rs 5,500 crore in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, according to an official press release. These projects aim to set the groundwork for Mahakumbh 2025 while boosting spiritual tourism and improving connectivity in the region.
Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister remarked, “India is a land of rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kaveri, Narmada, and many others. Prayag is the confluence, collection, congregation, combination, and influence of these sacred rivers, embodying their spiritual power and significance.”Key Projects
1. Rail and Road Infrastructure
- Construction of 10 new Road Over Bridges (RoBs) or flyovers.
- Development of permanent ghats and riverfront roads to enhance connectivity and infrastructure in Prayagraj.
2. Swachh and Nirmal Ganga Project
- Interception, tapping, diversion, and treatment of minor drains leading into the Ganga to ensure zero discharge of untreated water.
- Infrastructure upgrades for drinking water and electricity.
3. Major Temple Corridors
- Development of temple corridors such as Bharadwaj Ashram Corridor, Shringverpur Dham Corridor, Akshayvat Corridor, and Hanuman Mandir Corridor.
- These projects aim to improve access for devotees and promote spiritual tourism.
Focus on Spiritual Tourism
- Launch of the “Kumbh Sahayak” chatbot, the first AI-based tool for Kumbh, capable of conversing in 11 Indian languages to assist pilgrims.
- Development of the Hanuman Corridor and Akshayvat Corridor, along with inquiries into the Saraswati Koop redevelopment project.
Preparations for Mahakumbh 2025
Thousands of jobs to be created for retailers, boatmen, and those assisting with religious ceremonies and holy dips.
Deployment of over 15,000 sanitation workers to ensure cleanliness during the event.
A temporary city to be established on the banks of the Sangam for approximately 1.5 months, accommodating millions of daily visitors.
