Godaghat
Nashik: The state excise department has sought Nashik Municipal Corporation’s (NMC) recommendations on the geographical area and duration for which liquor sale restrictions should be imposed around Ramkund, Godaghat and Panchavati during the 2026-27 Simhastha Kumbh Mela. The meeting discussed restricting liquor sales within a radius of 2-3 km around Ramkund, Godaghat and Panchavati in Nashik and the Kushavart area in Trimbakeshwar to maintain Kumbh’s religious sanctity and address crowd-management and security concerns. Following the directions, the excise department submitted a proposal to the state govt, through the state excise commissioner, seeking restrictions on liquor outlets under Section 139 of the Maharashtra Prohibition Act, 1949. The state govt, through a letter dated Oct 13, subsequently sought clarifications on two key issues before taking a final decision and issuing a notification.
It asked officials to specify the exact geographical limit within which liquor licences should be closed or restricted and the period for which such restrictions should remain in force, said a state excise official. The move follows discussions at a review meeting chaired by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai around two-three months back. The CM directed officials to take action after completing the required legal formalities. A list of liquor licences likely to be affected by the proposed restrictions was also submitted. Accordingly, excise authorities have asked NMC to submit a clear recommendation on the proposed distance and duration of the restrictions after considering local conditions within municipal limits. The civic body’s opinion will be incorporated into the report to be submitted to the state govt.
The letter points out that lakhs of devotees and sadhus are expected to visit Nashik during the upcoming Kumbh Mela to be held in 2027, particularly around Ramkund and Godaghats in Panchavati. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Nashik | Silver Rate in Nashik | Bank Holidays in Nashik | Public Holidays in Nashik | Petrol Price in Nashik | Diesel Price in Nashik | CNG Price in Nashik | LPG Price in Nashik Stay updated with the latest Nashik news. It stresses the need to maintain civic amenities, cleanliness, local security and the religious sanctity of the area during the religious gathering. Download the TOI App.