CM Devendra Fadnavis Directs Formation of Kumbh Mela Authority for Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh 2027

Instructions for Utilizing Digital Technology and AI in Planning

Mumbai : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the formation of a dedicated Kumbh Mela Authority for the upcoming Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Simhastha Kumbh Mela in 2027. During a review meeting today, he emphasized the need to plan the event as a ‘Digital Technology Kumbh’, integrating modern technological advancements into its management.

A review meeting was held under the chairmanship of CM Fadnavis regarding the preparations for the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela in Nashik-Trimbakeshwar. The meeting was attended by Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Nashik Divisional Commissioner Dr. Pravin Gedam, District Collector Jalaj Sharma, Municipal Commissioner Manisha Khatri, and other departmental officials.

Formation of Kumbh Mela Authority

To ensure efficient coordination and faster execution of tasks, the Chief Minister proposed setting up a Kumbh Mela Authority, backed by a special legal framework. The authority will oversee all planning and manpower requirements for the grand event.

Considering the massive crowd influx at Prayagraj’s Maha Kumbh, CM Fadnavis directed a four to fivefold expansion in Nashik’s infrastructure planning. Measures include crowd management strategies, increased ghats, improved road, rail, and air connectivity, and the widening of the Nashik-Trimbak road by 24 meters. Additionally, he suggested establishing a tent city along the roads and conducting a drone survey to assess the feasibility of constructing a riverside road along the Godavari River.

Strengthening Transport & Connectivity

CM Fadnavis emphasized the need to upgrade roads leading to Nashik and Trimbakeshwar from Mumbai, Gujarat, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Shirdi, Pune, and Dhule. He proposed:

• Dedicated parking facilities along major routes.
• Electric bus shuttles every three minutes from parking zones to the city.
• Expansion of Shirdi and Ozar airports to accommodate more flights.
• Exploring the feasibility of setting up helipads in Nashik.
• Enhancing railway stations such as Nashik Road, Igatpuri, and Kasara to handle the surge in pilgrims.

Development of a Religious Corridor

Recognizing that pilgrims also visit Trimbakeshwar, Shirdi, Vani, Shani Shingnapur, and Mangi Tungi, CM Fadnavis proposed creating a religious corridor connecting these sites. He also ordered the completion of Nashik’s Ram Kaal Path by next year, the renovation of Trimbakeshwar Temple, and the beautification of Kushavarta and other sacred water bodies. Encroachments near Nashik and Trimbakeshwar temples will be removed immediately.

Digital & AI-Powered Kumbh

The 2027 Simhastha Kumbh will heavily incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technology for crowd control, traffic management, and surveillance. CM Fadnavis suggested:

• Setting up AI-based crowd monitoring systems.
• Installing digital exhibitions along congested routes for engaging pilgrims.
• Conducting a competition to design an official Kumbh Mela logo.
• Analyzing data from the 2015 Simhastha Kumbh to improve planning.
• Ensuring continuous flow of clean water in the Godavari for devotees’ holy baths.

Safety & Public Engagement

Proposed safety measures include:

• Acquiring land for ‘Sadhugram’, establishing health centers, fire stations, and other essential services.
• A robust public address system to ensure fast information dissemination.
• Training for personnel handling Kumbh Mela operations.
• Encouraging public participation in Kumbh preparations.

Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan emphasized the importance of community involvement and proper training for the workforce managing the event.