Key Highlights
- ₹778 crore sanctioned for major ghat development along the Shipra River.
- 29 km new ghats and 9 km renovation planned to support Simhastha 2028 crowds.
- Facilities upgraded for safety, accessibility, and real-time crowd management.
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh | November 2025: In preparation for Simhastha 2028, one of the largest spiritual gatherings on Earth, the Government of Madhya Pradesh has initiated an extensive ghat development programme worth ₹778 crore along the Shipra River in Ujjain. The goal is to provide better bathing facilities, crowd management systems, and enhanced safety for millions of devotees expected to arrive for the sacred snan (ritual bath).
29 km of New Ghats and 9 km of Renovation Work
According to the Ujjain Development Authority (UDA), new ghats spanning 29 kilometers are under construction, while 9 kilometers of existing permanent ghats are being renovated at a cost of ₹120 crore. Once completed, this upgraded riverfront infrastructure will allow up to 2.5 crore pilgrims to bathe in a single day during Simhastha’s peak bathing rituals.
“The ghat development work is designed for both spiritual and civic comfort. It combines ancient river traditions with modern safety standards,” said an official from the UDA.
Focus on Safety, Accessibility, and Aesthetics
The new ghats are being built using durable stone and eco-friendly materials, with improved lighting systems, non-slip flooring, steel railings, and accessible ramps for elderly devotees. Dedicated emergency corridors and crowd flow zones are being developed to ensure safe movement of pilgrims during Amrit Snan and Parva Snan days. The upgraded design also incorporates waste segregation units, drinking water points, and solar-powered lighting, aligning with the government’s “Clean River, Green Festival” mission.
Smart Riverfront Management During Simhastha 2028
Authorities plan to introduce a real-time crowd monitoring system and digital display panels along the Shipra banks. These will provide pilgrims with live updates on bathing timings, entry points, and available space at nearby ghats. Special focus has been placed on Ram Ghat, Mangalnath Ghat, and Triveni Ghat, which will act as central nodes for major bathing rituals. Each will be equipped with temporary holding areas, medical camps, and disaster response units during the festival.
Environmentally Sustainable Construction
To prevent pollution and silt accumulation in the Shipra, all construction work follows eco-regulatory guidelines from the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board. Sediment barriers, biological filtration, and controlled drainage systems are being implemented to ensure zero discharge of untreated water into the river.
“Our goal is to make the Shipra not only a river of faith but also a symbol of environmental renewal,” said an environmental officer supervising the ghat project.
Cultural Integration and Pilgrim Experience
Beyond physical development, the ghat project aims to enhance the spiritual ambience of Ujjain’s riverfront. Art installations, devotional murals, and information centers are being planned to narrate stories from Puranic texts linked to the Shipra and Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. The initiative will preserve the cultural sanctity of the ghats while adding modern amenities that reflect the spiritual essence of Simhastha.
Part of Ujjain’s ₹20,000 Crore Development Mission
The ghat development is one of the core components of Ujjain’s ₹20,000 crore infrastructure plan for Simhastha 2028. Other major projects include 581 km of road expansion, Kanh Diversion Closed Duct Project, Zero Waste Event initiative, and the creation of Veer Bharat Museum at Kothi Palace. Together, these efforts aim to establish Ujjain as India’s leading model of faith-based sustainable tourism.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Riverfront Development
“The Shipra River is the lifeline of Ujjain. Our ghat development work ensures that every devotee experiences divinity, cleanliness, and safety during Simhastha 2028,” said Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, while reviewing the ongoing projects.
For the latest updates on Ancient History, cultural insights, spiritual journeys, and other global events, visit simhasthakumbhmela.com first.
What are your thoughts on the meaning of “Kumbh” and its connection to the Kumbh Mela? Share your views in the comments below and don’t forget to share this article with others!
