Key Highlights
- ₹22,000 crore makeover to prepare Ujjain for Simhastha 2028.
- 581 km of roads widened, 661 km of new routes underway.
- MR-22 Riverfront Road to ease pilgrim traffic along the Shipra River.
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh | November 2025:
As preparations for Simhastha 2028 accelerate, Ujjain is witnessing a massive expansion of its road network to handle the arrival of over 30 crore devotees. The Madhya Pradesh Government has launched an extensive 581 km road widening and 661 km new construction program, designed to improve connectivity, reduce congestion, and ensure smoother pilgrim movement during the grand festival.
Transforming Ujjain’s Road Infrastructure
Under this ambitious plan, key arterial roads and access routes across Ujjain district are being widened and upgraded. The project, valued at ₹13,536 crore, focuses on strengthening regional mobility between major temples, ghats, and Simhastha zones. An additional ₹8,673 crore has been allocated for new proposed routes, bringing total investment in road infrastructure to over ₹22,000 crore.
“These developments will ensure seamless movement of devotees, improve emergency access, and modernize traffic systems,” said an official from the Ujjain Development Authority (UDA).
MR-22 Riverfront Road: A New Lifeline Along the Shipra
A key highlight of the road modernization plan is the MR-22 Riverfront Road Project — a 30-meter-wide corridor being constructed parallel to the Shipra River at a cost of ₹193 crore. Developed by the Ujjain Development Authority, this road will connect the Simhastha Bypass to major pilgrimage spots including Shani Temple, Bhukhi Mata Temple, Ranjeet Hanuman, and Kal Bhairav Temple.
During the Simhastha festival, this route will serve as a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor, streamlining movement of public transport and pilgrims between key ghats.
Enhanced Safety and Smart Traffic Management
To ensure safety and efficiency, advanced traffic management systems will be deployed along the widened corridors. Plans include CCTV monitoring, emergency response units, digital signage, and dedicated pedestrian zones near ghats and temples.
The road design incorporates improved lighting, drainage, and parking zones for buses and emergency vehicles.
Boosting Local Economy and Long-Term Connectivity
The expanded network is expected to significantly benefit local residents, transport operators, and small businesses by improving regional accessibility.
With enhanced road quality and better logistics, Ujjain will experience faster travel times to Indore, Dewas, and other major cities, strengthening its position as a hub of religious tourism and trade.
“The road expansion isn’t just for the Simhastha — it’s a permanent investment in Ujjain’s future,” said a senior Public Works Department engineer.
Sustainable Urban Mobility
All major road projects are being developed with a focus on sustainability — including green medians, rainwater drainage systems, and dust suppression techniques to minimize environmental impact. These initiatives align with the government’s broader goal to make Simhastha 2028 India’s first “eco-smart” pilgrimage event.
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