Haridwar to get new ghats, existing ones to be repaired ahead of Kumbh 2027

Dehradun: With the aim of reducing crowd pressure during Kumbh 2027, the authorities have planned the construction of new ghats in Haridwar. The Kangra Ghat will be expanded and repairs of existing ghats will be completed. All works related to the Kumbh will be carried out in line with the expanded mela area and the proposed master plan, clearly marking all sectors, roads, parking zones, ghats and campsites, while ensuring necessary land acquisition and temporary use of land.In a review meeting on Wednesday, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami directed departments to complete all permanent works by Oct 2026. "The tasks should be prioritised and executed in coordination among departments. All projects must be finished on schedule to avoid last-minute confusion before the Kumbh," he said. Dhami also stressed the need to strictly remove encroachments from govt land and roads to ensure smooth conduct of the mela.The CM further instructed that works being carried out by the Uttarakhand Investment and Infrastructure Development Board under the Haridwar Ganga Corridor project be aligned with Kumbh preparations. He also called for expediting the under-construction Bahadarabad-Shyampur bypass to maximise its utility during the event. "A master plan for setting up special tents in Shyampur, Gendikhata and Chandighat areas should be prepared. For the convenience of devotees, strengthen traffic and parking arrangements, prepare diversion plans, provide adequate parking facilities and consider shuttle services if parking sites are located far from the venue," he added.On waste management, Dhami emphasised adopting a zero-waste model by ensuring proper systems for garbage disposal, dustbins, recycling units, and mobile toilets. "Adequate pink toilets and changing rooms should be arranged for female devotees. There must be round-the-clock cleaning at ghats and Ganga banks, with proper seating and arrangements for aarti at Har Ki Pauri," he added.Dhami also highlighted the need for robust security arrangements, medical facilities, information centres and pilgrim safety measures. He instructed the chief secretary to review Kumbh Mela preparations every 15 days.