A key meeting chaired by Ujjain Divisional Commissioner Sanjay Gupta outlined ambitious plans for Simhastha 2028, focusing on infrastructure development, river projects, and improvements to pilgrim facilities across the region.
Indore Collector Ashish Singh, Ujjain Collector Neeraj Kumar Singh, Dewas Collector Rishabh Gupta, Khandwa Collector Anoop Kumar Singh, and other divisional officials joined the meeting through an online platform, while several other officials were present on the occasion.
Setting the tone for the meeting, Ujjain Collector Neeraj Kumar Singh presented the work plan, highlighting the most crucial work in the district, including the diversion of the Kanh River and the Sevarkhedi-Silarkhedi project to maintain the flow of the Kshipra River. A proposal for the construction of permanent ghats was also discussed.
During the meeting, Divisional Commissioner Sanjay Gupta stated that all permanent works must undergo third-party inspections, which should be coordinated with IIT Indore and other agencies.
Gupta further stated that work for widening the roads for pilgrims in urban areas will be handled by the Municipal Corporation, while bridge work will be managed by the Bridge Corporation. The construction of embankments and dams on rivers will be handled by the Water Resources Department.
The top official in the division instructed all collectors to prepare work plans for the improvement of pilgrimage and tourist sites in their respective districts, considering the expected influx of pilgrims. The plans should be presented at the next meeting, he said, while underlining the need for planning and developing infrastructure with the high footfall and pilgrim traffic expected at the event in mind.
Proposals regarding the Pashupatinath Temple in Mandsaur, Bhadwa Mata Temple in Neemuch, Kalka Mata Temple in Ratlam, Chamunda Mata Temple in Dewas, and other pilgrimage sites in Indore Division were also discussed.
Collector Singh stated that improvements and enhancements will be made to several temples and parikrama routes. Saints' residences will also be improved as part of the preparations.
Parking and other pilgrim facilities were also discussed by the group of officials responsible for the arrangements for the month-long Simhastha Kumbh festivities, which will get underway on April 9, 2028.
