Kumbh Mela: Expert panel formed for beautification of Nashik and Trimbakeshwar

As preparations for the Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027 enter a crucial phase the Nashik Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority NTKMA has formed a Technical Advisory Committee TAC for city beautificationThe committee has been set up to ensure that all urban design and beautification works in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar are planned in a structured sensitive and expertled manner ahead of the large influx of pilgrims expected during the Kumbh MelaThe Technical Advisory Committee will act as an advisory and mentorship body to the NTKMA and its consultants It will provide technical guidance and review at all stages of the project including planning design tendering and implementation of beautification worksSpecialists from multiple fieldsThe committee includes experts from environmental landscape planning urban design conservation architecture cultural and heritage studies and public art Officials said this will help ensure that development respects Nashikrsquos ecology cultural identity and historical importanceThe committeersquos work will focus on key public areas linked to the Kumbh Mela These include the strengthening and beautification of ghats and riverfront stretches along the Godavari river improvement of major approach roads from railway stations and bus terminals and the development of major junctions as urban landmarksIt will also advise on the aesthetic improvement of flyovers and bridges across the cityWayfinding lighting and sadhugram developmentThe TAC will guide the planning of citywide wayfinding systems multilingual signage and lighting of public spaces and heritage buildings Special attention will be given to the beautification of Sadhugram areas to provide dignified and functional spaces for sadhus and akharasThe committee will also advise on thematic murals facade treatments and public art to create a festive yet culturally rooted visual identity for the city Plans will include expanding urban green spaces and shaded resting areas for pilgrimsIn addition heritage structures within the core Kumbh Mela zone and up to a 50kilometre radius will be conserved to improve the overall pilgrim experiencePreserving intangible heritageSpecial emphasis will be placed on documenting and promoting Nashikrsquos intangible cultural heritage including rituals crafts music and oral traditions linked to the Kumbh MelaOfficial StatementNTKMA Commissioner Shekhar Singh said the Simhastha Kumbh Mela is a religious gathering of global importanceldquoIt offers a unique opportunity to develop Nashik and Trimbakeshwar as cities of cultural historical and international significance Through the Technical Advisory Committee beautification works will be carried out with respect for local context environmental sustainability and longterm use ensuring a safe and memorable experience for devotees and citizensrdquo he said