Govt plans to make Nashik greenest in state: Mahajan

Nashik: Kumbh Mela minister Girish Mahajan on Wednesday said Maharashtra govt is undertaking large-scale tree plantation drives across Nashik with the goal of transforming the city into one of the greenest in the state ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela.Speaking at the District Investment Summit Nashik 2026, Mahajan said the initiative is intended to improve environmental conditions and enhance livability, while ensuring ecological balance amid rapid urban and infrastructure development.His remarks come at a time when the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed an interim stay on tree felling in Nashik till June 19. The Nashik Municipal Corporation's proposal to cut trees at Tapovan to develop a Sadhugram and Kumbh-related road projects is under challenge by environmental activists.Mahajan said the investment summit has helped integrate the spiritual significance of the Kumbh with entrepreneurship and economic growth, adding that the event belongs to every resident of Nashik.Highlighting the scale of the upcoming Kumbh, he said accommodating large numbers of devotees would require extensive planning and coordination, and called for cooperation from industry stakeholders.He also pointed to ongoing efforts to improve connectivity, including airport expansion and enhanced rail infrastructure, alongside initiatives to boost industrial growth and generate employment. The minister reiterated govt's focus on investor-friendly policies and infrastructure development.Mahajan further announced a special plantation campaign during the Kumbh and urged citizens to contribute towards making Nashik clean, green, safe and environmentally sustainable.