Simhastha Kumbh Mela preparation gains pace, utility works on ghat roads near completion

Nashik: As the Simhastha Kumbh Mela approaches, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has accelerated infrastructure work on two major ghat-linking roads in the Nashik East division, with most projects close to completion.

The works span 6.3km in total, including a 4.3-km stretch from Lekhanagar on National Highway-3 to Vijay Mamata junction via Kalanagar, Wadala village and Ravishankar Marg and a 2km corridor connecting Vijay Mamata Chowk to Takli village and the Sangam bridge. These routes are crucial for access to the ghats, Sadugram, and traffic management during the Kumbh Mela, especially on Amrit Snan (holy bath) days.

According to civic officials, major underground utility work on the first corridor is largely complete. “Sewer lines and water supply pipelines have been fully laid, while optical fibre cable network, CCTV installations and Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited pipeline works are in the final stage. Simultaneously, pipeline-laying under the Mukne-Gangapur water supply scheme has made significant progress,” an official said.

On the second stretch leading to Sangam bridge, optical fibre cable and CCTV work has been completed. “Water supply pipeline installation and stormwater drainage works are, however, still under way. Drainage work is being prioritised ahead of the monsoon to minimise waterlogging and ensure smooth traffic movement,” the official said.

The civic officials said efforts were being carried out on a war footing to meet pre-monsoon deadlines, which were critical to avoid inconvenience to residents and prepare for the expected influx of pilgrims. The upgraded corridors were expected to play a vital role in managing crowd and traffic flow during Simhastha Kumbh Mela, they said.

Municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri said the administration was focused on completing the works within the set timeline while maintaining quality standards. “All necessary precautions are being taken to ensure minimal inconvenience to citizens and smooth arrangements for devotees visiting the city during Simhastha,” she said.

The officials said completing utility works in advance would prevent repeated road digging in the future and support long-term urban planning. The integrated execution involving multiple agencies — handling telecom, gas, water supply and drainage — is aimed at strengthening Nashik’s infrastructure for both the Kumbh Mela and future needs.