Kumbh authority clears Rs44 crore to repair Godavari bathing ghats

Nashik: The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) has sanctioned Rs44 crore for repair and strengthening of bathing ghats along the Godavari river, marking a key step in preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela scheduled in 2027.

The funds will be channelled via Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC), which will carry out the restoration work in the first phase. Earlier, the NMC had proposed a Rs120-crore plan to refurbish all ghats constructed during the 2015 Kumbh Mela.

Officials, however, said the initial allocation of Rs44 crore would be used to address urgent repairs and ensure that major ghats were safe and operational ahead of the mega religious gathering.

Divisional Commissioner and Kumbh authority chairman Praveen Gedam confirmed the update and said priority would be given to strengthening ageing structures and upgrading basic facilities at key bathing locations to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims.

According to sources, Kumbh authority commissioner Shekhar Singh presented the proposal after the civic body highlighted the deteriorating condition of several ghats along the riverbanks. “These structures have experienced considerable wear and tear due to heavy use and environmental factors,” he said.

Spanning nearly 5km along the Godavari river, the ghats were originally developed to handle heavy pilgrim inflow and ease congestion at Ramkund, the main bathing site. With a much larger turnout expected in 2027, the authority has prioritised their restoration alongside plans for new infrastructure.

“Additional funds may be sanctioned in subsequent phases as preparations progress. The current works are expected to improve structural stability, enhance accessibility and help maintain the sanctity of the bathing areas during the festival,” an official said.