Eknath Shinde Announces ₹35,000 Crore Nashik Development Plan

Nashik to Get ₹35,000 Crore Infrastructure Boost Ahead of Simhastha Kumbh Mela, Says Eknath Shinde

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced a ₹35,000 crore development plan for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, with major infrastructure improvements planned for Nashik and Trimbakeshwar. The investment will focus on better roads, improved public facilities, and infrastructure to manage the expected arrival of lakhs of pilgrims.

Speaking at development events in Nashik on Monday, Shinde said the religious gathering would create new opportunities for the city's growth. He emphasized that the state government was committed to completing development projects on time while maintaining high standards of quality.

₹35,000 Crore Plan to Improve Nashik and Trimbakeshwar Infrastructure

The Maharashtra government has set aside approximately ₹35,000 crore for preparations for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela. The planned improvements aim to strengthen Nashik's infrastructure and improve facilities in neighboring Trimbakeshwar, which is expected to receive large numbers of devotees during the religious event.

The development plan includes road upgrades, better public amenities, and essential facilities to support the movement and comfort of pilgrims. These improvements are also expected to benefit local residents by strengthening the region's infrastructure beyond the Kumbh Mela.

Shinde said the government would continue to prioritize development and ensure that important projects did not face unnecessary delays.

New Gangapur Road Project to Help Reduce Traffic Congestion

During his visit, Shinde performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a road project in Gangapur, Nashik. The project is expected to ease traffic congestion and provide greater convenience to residents.

Highlighting the importance of good roads in urban development, the Deputy Chief Minister instructed officials to complete the work within the scheduled timeline. He also stressed the need for strict quality control and warned that action should be taken against contractors responsible for substandard construction.

The government aims to improve road connectivity and traffic management in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar ahead of the expected increase in visitors during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela.

Simhastha Kumbh Mela Preparations to Gain Momentum

Shinde said the upcoming Kumbh Mela would accelerate development across Nashik and Trimbakeshwar. The government is working to ensure that roads and public facilities can accommodate the large number of devotees expected to attend the gathering.

The formal commencement of Simhastha preparations is scheduled to be marked by a flag-hoisting ceremony in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu on October 31.

Shinde also said the government remained committed to supporting farmers despite the prevailing drought situation while continuing preparations for the religious event.

He noted that the government had a responsibility to provide the required infrastructure, while Nashik residents would also play an important role in welcoming visitors and helping ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims.

New Engineering College Hostel to Support Rural Students

Alongside infrastructure development, Shinde inaugurated a newly constructed hostel at Karmaveer Advocate Baburao Ganpat Thakare College of Engineering in Nashik.

He praised the Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj for its contribution to education over 112 years. The institution has helped expand educational opportunities for students from rural and remote areas through its various initiatives.

The new hostel is designed to offer students a safe and comfortable living environment, allowing those from distant villages to pursue engineering education with greater convenience.

Shinde said access to education and improved infrastructure would both play an important role in shaping Nashik's future and creating better opportunities for young people.

Eknath Shinde Reviews Employee Demands and Housing Issues

During the visit, Shinde also addressed employee-related concerns and housing matters. He directed officials to forward proposals concerning employees' demands to the Urban Development Department for further consideration.

He also assured that the proposal for the rehabilitation of the Sant Kabir Nagar slum would be examined, with a positive decision to be considered from a housing and rehabilitation perspective.

The discussions highlighted the government's focus on addressing civic concerns alongside major infrastructure projects.

Nashik Development Drive Focuses on Speed, Quality, and Public Benefits

Shinde called for transparency, timely execution, and high construction standards across development projects. He emphasized that infrastructure work linked to the Simhastha Kumbh Mela should deliver practical benefits to residents as well as visiting devotees.

Guardian Minister Girish Mahajan, Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, MLAs Seema Hiray and Gokul Gite, Mayor Himgauri Aher-Adke, Deputy Mayor Vilas Shinde, Nashik Municipal Commissioner Manisha Khatri, and several officials, educators, trustees, students, and local residents attended the events.

With an investment of approximately ₹35,000 crore planned for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, Nashik and Trimbakeshwar are set for a major infrastructure push. The proposed road improvements, public facilities, and education-related initiatives are expected to support the region's development while helping prepare for the large religious gathering.