NMC seeks Rs120cr from Kumbh authority to repair Godavari ghats

Nashik: The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has approached the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) seeking Rs120 crore for repair and renovation of bathing ghats along the Godavari river, which were built during Kumbh Mela 2015.The civic body has cited the urgent need to restore the aging riverfront infrastructure ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027.“The ghats need strengthening and refurbishment before the next Kumbh. Repairs will enhance safety for devotees and help maintain the sanctity and usability of the bathing areas,” an NMC official said.NMC commissioner Manisha Khatri has written to the NTKMA requesting funds to undertake repair works. She stated that the condition of several ghats has deteriorated over time and requires intervention in view of the massive footfall expected during the event.NTKMA commissioner Shekhar Singh also said they will be putting it up the issue about funding for the repairs of existing ghats in next meeting of the Kumbh Mela Authority.Authorities have projected a sharp surge in the number of visitors compared to the previous Kumbh held in 2015. Officials estimate that nearly 10 lakh sadhus are likely to arrive in Nashik for the upcoming event, as against around 2.5 lakh sadhus who participated in the last Kumbh. Similarly, the number of devotees visiting Nashik is expected to rise from around 2 crore in 2015 to nearly 8 crore in 2027, while about 4 crore devotees are anticipated to visit Trimbakeshwar.The administration has also prioritised the restoration of the existing ghats to ensure safety and smooth movement of pilgrims.The bathing ghats constructed for the 2015 Kumbh span nearly 5km along the Godavari riverbanks. These structures were developed to accommodate heavy crowds and reduce congestion at Ramkund. However, officials said that wear and tear over the years, along with exposure to water flow and seasonal variations, has affected portions of the infrastructure.Khatri, during a presentation on Kumbh preparations at a recent general body meeting, informed corporators that the civic body would require Rs 120 crore to undertake comprehensive repair works.According to civic officials, the proposed works include structural repairs, resurfacing of steps, improvement of access pathways, and upgrading basic amenities at the ghats. The aim is to restore the facilities to their original condition and ensure a better experience for pilgrims visiting the city.The Simhastha Kumbh Mela will formally begin with the flag-hoisting ceremony on Oct 31 this year, while the three key Amrit Snan (royal bathing) dates are scheduled between Aug and Sept 2027. During these days, lakhs of sadhus and crores of devotees gather at Ramkund and other ghats along the Godavari to take a holy dip.