Nagpur: Maharashtra is gearing up for the Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027, a mega religious event expected to draw millions of devotees. In light of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, which claimed at least 30 lives and injured 60 others due to overcrowding, state authorities are taking proactive measures to ensure a safer and more efficient event in Nashik.
Addressing Unique Challenges in Nashik:
Unlike Prayagraj, where the Kumbh Mela is spread across a vast 4,000-acre area, Nashik faces logistical challenges due to its limited 300-acre space, narrow riverbanks, and the monsoon season coinciding with the event. This geographical constraint necessitates meticulous planning for crowd management and infrastructure development.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has already initiated preparations, holding high-level meetings to discuss infrastructure, safety protocols, and logistics. Senior BJP minister Girish Mahajan has been appointed to oversee the comprehensive planning process.
Revamping Nashik for the Mega Event:
To accommodate the expected lakhs of devotees, the government has rolled out a multi-pronged development strategy, including:
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Improvement of roads and parking facilities.
• Enhanced Riverbank Facilities: Expansion of bathing ghats along the Godavari River.
• Devotee Accommodations: Establishment of a dedicated ‘Sadhugram’ for saints and makeshift housing for pilgrims.
• Traffic Management: Creation of multiple entry and exit points to streamline movement.
Fadnavis also emphasized better coordination among district administrations and municipal corporations to ensure a seamless event.
Proposed Spiritual Corridor and Highway Expansion:
The government is also planning a spiritual corridor connecting Nashik and Trimbakeshwar, alongside the expansion of the Igatpuri-Nashik stretch of the Mumbai-Agra National Highway to facilitate smoother travel for devotees.
Political Dynamics and Budget Allocations:
In 2015, a budget of Rs 2,500 crore was sanctioned for the development of Nashik and Trimbakeshwar regions. This amount is expected to rise as preparations gain momentum. However, political dynamics between the BJP and Shiv Sena over the appointment of a guardian minister for Nashik have added an element of intrigue to the planning process, with both parties eyeing a prominent role.
Learning from Prayagraj: A Safer Future
The Prayagraj tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges posed by massive gatherings. Maharashtra’s proactive approach, guided by past lessons, aims to ensure that Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027 not only becomes a spiritually enriching experience but also sets a benchmark for safe and well-managed religious events.
By prioritizing safety, infrastructure, and coordination, Maharashtra is determined to elevate Nashik’s status as a global spiritual destination while avoiding the pitfalls witnessed in previous events.
