Mumbai, May 14: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Wednesday that the upcoming Kumbh Mela in Nashik-Trimbakeshwar presents an ideal opportunity for public service. He assured that there would be no financial constraints for the successful organization of the event.
CM Fadnavis announced a grant of ₹5 crore for each Akhara to ensure all necessary facilities are provided. Additionally, small institutions will receive ₹15 lakh each, while the government will cover the electricity bills for the Akharas. If land owned by the Akharas is acquired for government projects, compensation or alternative land will be provided.
The Chief Minister was addressing a review meeting for the Kumbh Mela. He emphasized that the event would be organized in a grand and spiritual manner, guided by saints and devotees from around the world.
Fadnavis noted that suggestions from saints and Mahants regarding the successful organization of the Kumbh Mela are crucial. He mentioned that they have appreciated the ongoing work and provided recommendations for faster and better project completion. He believes that these discussions will aid in the successful execution of the Kumbh Mela, for which a comprehensive plan has already been prepared.
The preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela are not limited to next year’s event but are also being made with the next Kumbh Mela, scheduled in 12 years, in mind. He highlighted that permanent infrastructure and development projects are being established in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar for future use. The scale of the Kumbh Mela is continuously expanding, necessitating a long-term planning approach.
Fadnavis pointed out that the Trimbakeshwar temple is one of India’s most significant Jyotirlingas, and the Kumbh Mela is held in the sacred area where the Godavari River originates. To enhance facilities for devotees, a corridor is being developed around the temple complex. Restoration work for ponds, Ramkund Path, temples, and caves in Nashik is also ongoing. Efforts are being made to create a spiritual atmosphere in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar.
A comprehensive health plan has been prepared to ensure that saints, Mahants, and devotees do not face any health-related issues during the Kumbh Mela. The Chief Minister mentioned that restrictions on certain portions of the land allocated to the Akharas would also be considered.
He assured that compared to the last Kumbh Mela, devotees will witness a much cleaner Godavari River this time, as extensive work is being undertaken.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed confidence that the Kumbh Mela would be organized in a grand manner and emphasized that there would be no negligence in security arrangements. He instructed officials to ensure the safety and convenience of devotees and address the demands of the Akharas.
Shinde stated that the Akharas have assured that there will be no inconvenience for devotees and the general public during the Kumbh Mela. He praised the suggestions provided by the Akharas, believing that the event will be successful with everyone’s cooperation.
Currently, 377 acres of land have been reserved for the Kumbh Mela. However, the Akharas have requested additional land, and the government is positively considering this demand. Shinde assured that there would be no financial shortage for the Kumbh Mela, and necessary funds for infrastructure and facilities for devotees would be made available immediately.
He directed all security agencies to work in coordination to prevent any untoward incidents. Emphasis was also placed on utilizing modern technology for crowd management and emergency arrangements. He reiterated that the government would ensure that there are no shortcomings in organizing the Kumbh Mela.
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