Maharashtra approves ₹1,900 crore budget for 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela
The Maharashtra government has approved a major budget for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, with plans to implement a Smart Kumbh initiative. Officials are also exploring ways to adopt the Kashi Model for crowd management in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar. The event is expected to attract around 12 crore visitors by 2027. A delegation of officials visited the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple to study its crowd control systems and real-time CCTV monitoring. The temple trust’s expertise in managing large pilgrimage crowds has caught the state’s attention. The government is now considering applying this model to the Simhastha Kumbh Mela preparations.
The state has allocated approximately ₹1,900 crore for development works, including the creation of Sadhugram. This 377-acre area will serve as a dedicated camp for sadhus and akharas during the event. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple Trust of Ujjain to improve devotee facilities and streamline crowd movement.
Beyond the Kumbh Mela, expansion plans for Nashik’s Ozar Airport are underway to support international pilgrims. A new helicopter pilgrimage circuit is also being proposed to enhance connectivity for devotees visiting major temples. The Smart Kumbh initiative aims to modernise infrastructure and services for the 2027 event. The government’s collaboration with experienced temple trusts and its investment in key projects signal a push for better organisation. These measures are expected to ease crowd management and improve the pilgrimage experience for millions of visitors.
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