Key Highlights
- ₹919 crore project to stop polluted Kanh water from entering Shipra.
- 30 km closed canal to protect river purity for Simhastha 2028.
- Advanced monitoring tech to ensure year-round clean flow.
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh | November 2025:
In a major environmental push ahead of Simhastha 2028, the Madhya Pradesh government has accelerated work on the ₹919-crore Kanh Diversion Closed Duct Project, designed to ensure the Shipra River remains pollution-free during the massive pilgrimage.
The project aims to divert contaminated water from Indore’s Kanh River long before it reaches Shipra — a crucial step as Ujjain prepares for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
30 km Closed Canal to Stop Polluted Water
At the heart of the initiative is a 30-km underground closed duct system.
Of this:
- 18 km will be constructed using the cut-and-cover method
- 12 km will be built as a deep tunnel
Together, they will redirect wastewater and prevent dirty inflow into Shipra, especially near key ghats and bathing points.
Officials say the project will help maintain clean, uninterrupted water flow throughout the year.
Critical for Simhastha 2028 Preparations
With millions expected to take the holy dip during Simhastha, protecting water quality has become a priority.
The closed duct system is being coordinated with:
- Wastewater interception works
- Upgrades to sewage treatment plants
- Stormwater channel management
All of these form a comprehensive river rejuvenation strategy for Ujjain.
Modern Engineering at the Core
The project incorporates several advanced features:
- A fully enclosed canal system to prevent leakage
- Automated flow-control mechanisms
- Real-time monitoring sensors
- Maintenance shafts placed at regular distances
These components are part of the state’s Smart River Management System, aimed at long-term ecological protection.
Long-Term Environmental Gains
Once operational, the project is expected to:
- Stop industrial and domestic effluents from entering Shipra
- Restore the river’s self-cleaning capacity
- Boost aquatic life and biodiversity
- Improve sanitation around pilgrim areas
- Support sustainable spiritual tourism
Experts believe the project could become a national model for river conservation in holy cities.
Part of Ujjain’s Larger Development Push
The Kanh Diversion work connects to Ujjain’s ₹20,000-crore master plan for Simhastha 2028, which includes:
- ₹614 crore Sewarkhedi–Silarkhedi Water Project
- ₹778 crore ghat revamp and beautification works
- A citywide Zero Waste Event initiative
Together, these projects aim to transform Ujjain into a model eco-spiritual destination.
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav: “Shipra’s purity is our top priority”
While reviewing the progress, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said the project represents a critical commitment to both faith and environment.
“The Shipra is the soul of Ujjain. Through this project, we are ensuring a pure and sacred experience for every devotee in Simhastha 2028,” he said.
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