River Linking Project Will Make Maharashtra Drought-Free – Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Grand launch of ‘Goda to Narmada’ Jal Yatra in the presence of the Chief Minister; a unique tribute to Ahilyadevi while promoting water conservation

Nashik, April 2026 : On the occasion of the 300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar, the ‘Goda to Narmada’ Jal Yatra, organized by the Water Resources Department of the Maharashtra Government, was ceremoniously inaugurated by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the holy town of Trimbakeshwar.

The Chief Minister stated that the government has decided to make the state drought-free through a river linking project. He also emphasized that efforts will be made to ensure a clean and uninterrupted flow of the Godavari River in view of the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela.

The yatra has been launched with a threefold objective—thought, heritage, and development inspired by Ahilyadevi. The event was attended by Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal, Water Resources Ministers Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil and Girish Mahajan, Indore royal family’s Yuvraj Yashwantrao Holkar, spiritual leader Annasaheb More, Nashik Mayor Himgauri Adke, and senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary Deepak Kapoor.

Chief Minister Fadnavis said that rivers have been revered as mothers since Vedic times, and ancient sages have described their importance in scriptures. He stressed that balancing heritage conservation with development is essential for the nation’s bright future. The yatra aims to guide future development based on Ahilyadevi’s ideals. He added that efforts are underway to ensure the Godavari flows perennially, as it is vital for both Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Recalling Ahilyadevi Holkar’s contributions, he said she successfully blended spirituality with utility while constructing ghats and stepwells, placing strong emphasis on water management. The government will preserve these historic structures, many of which remain in good condition today.

He also noted that Ahilyadevi worked to prevent river pollution and uplift women, the poor, and tribal communities. Her ideals, along with those of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, remain relevant for achieving sustainable development.

Minister Vikhe Patil said that two yatras have started from Trimbakeshwar and Chondi, concluding at Maheshwar on the banks of the Narmada in Madhya Pradesh. Water collected from 30 river basins across the state will be ceremonially offered to the Narmada. The yatra aims to spread awareness about water conservation and promote Ahilyadevi’s legacy.

Annasaheb More highlighted ongoing efforts to spread water literacy and river cleanliness initiatives through the Gurupith. He called upon the younger generation to stay free from addictions and contribute to nation-building. He also expressed confidence that the Chief Minister’s visit would accelerate Kumbh Mela preparations.

Yuvraj Holkar said that Ahilyadevi initiated water management practices along the Narmada and emphasized that water literacy is the need of the hour. The yatra symbolizes unity by connecting the Godavari and Narmada rivers under the message of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”

During the event, a ceremonial water pot from Kushavart was presented to the Chief Minister. Water collected from 30 river basins was also worshipped by dignitaries. Young mountaineer Manikarnika Deshpande, who summited Kedarkanth at the age of six, was felicitated. The ‘Goda to Narmada Jal Yatra 2026’ theme song was released, and the logo of the “Unnat Nashik Abhiyan” was unveiled.

The yatra, part of the ‘Water Management Fortnight,’ aims to raise awareness about water resources, encourage public participation, and strengthen sustainable water management practices. It will travel across various districts of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh from April 25 to April 29, with around 500 participants including devotees and youth.

Yatra Schedule:

• April 25: Trimbakeshwar to Sangamner (halt at Sangamner)
• April 26: Sangamner to Shirdi (halt at Shirdi)
• April 27: Kopargaon, Vaijapur, Sambhajinagar, Grishneshwar (halt at Grishneshwar)
• April 28: Kannad, Chalisgaon, Dhule (halt at Dhule)
• April 29: Dhule to Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh (conclusion)