With the Simhastha Kumbh Mela set to begin on Oct 31, five NMC fire tenders fanned out across Ramkund and the adjoining Godaghat area on Monday, washing the ghats and temple precincts as part of an intensive clean-up drive ahead of the Dhwajarohan ceremony
Nashik: With the Simhastha Kumbh Mela flag-hoisting ceremony drawing near, the civic body has decided to restrict public access to Ramkund and adjoining ghats for the next 15-20 days to fast-track pending infrastructure works. “We have decided to restrict access to the Ramkund area for the next 15-20 days due to the various works that need to be completed before the flag-hoisting ceremony.
Addressing a joint press conference, Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority Commissioner Shekhar Singh and NMC commissioner Manisha Khatri said preparations for the ceremony have entered a crucial phase. The decision was taken after consultations with local legislators and other stakeholders,” Khatri said. The restrictions will be enforced between Ahilyabai Holkar bridge and Talukteshwar temple, though Dashkriya rituals will continue at the designated site. Cultural programme arrangements are also being finalised.
The civic body is racing to complete paving, concreting and other infrastructure works across the Godaghat area while ensuring essential amenities, including public toilets, are ready before the event. On Monday, Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) fire brigade pressed five fire tenders into service to wash and clean Ramkund and surrounding areas as part of an intensive cleanliness drive.
As part of the build-up, a mass Shankhnad event is planned on Oct 25, with organisers aiming for a Guinness World Record. Alongside construction activity, NMC has launched a special cleanliness campaign covering Ramkund, the Godavari ghats and Gandhi Talav. 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.
Khatri said a new ghat at Ramkund has already been completed with stone steps installed, while repair works at adjoining ghats are being carried out by the Smart City Corporation. Singh said the administration is working closely with the district administration, police, civic agencies, public representatives, akhadas and religious organisations to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Authorities are also removing construction debris and other encroachments from public spaces. Discussions are underway on crowd management, pilgrim safety, transport and traffic regulation. Meetings with akhadas and religious institutions will also be held to coordinate religious and cultural programmes. The programme will also feature the unveiling of a commemorative postage stamp on the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, launch of the Kumbh Authority’s website, release of a coffee-table book, cultural performances and a special Godavari aarti. Appealing for patience, officials urged citizens to cooperate with the temporary restrictions, saying the inconvenience is necessary to prepare the city for one of the country’s largest religious congregations. Calling the flag-hoisting ceremony a celebration for the entire city, Singh urged Nashik residents to participate actively and support preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela. Download the TOI App.
All pending works are expected to be completed before the ceremony.