The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) convened a meeting on August 5 to discuss the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus operations and transport planning for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027. This gathering was chaired by Commissioner Shekhar Singh from NTKMA.

Present at the meeting were Managing Director of MSRTC Dr Madhav Kusekar and senior officials from various departments including the Transport Department, Railways, Police, Nashik Municipal Corporation, Citilink, and other relevant authorities. The main objective was to review and enhance the connectivity and mobility planning specifically for the Kumbh Mela.

Focus Areas of Discussion

During the meeting, officials examined proposals related to bus operations along significant pilgrimage corridors such as Nashik-Trimbakeshwar, Ahilyanagar-Shirdi, and Shirdi-Shani Shingnapur. Detailed discussions revolved around route planning, fleet deployment strategies, and the frequency of services during both peak and non-peak periods to accommodate the anticipated influx of pilgrims.

The discussions also highlighted plans to enhance connectivity between Nashik Airport and major railway stations, as well as various key pilgrimage sites. The feasibility of providing direct MSRTC services to these destinations was assessed, along with plans for coordinating bus schedules with train and flight timings, identifying bus stop locations, and improving passenger amenities at transport hubs.

Officials further deliberated on an Origin-Destination (OD) assessment of bus demand, alongside necessary infrastructure developments in parking areas and railway station zones. Critical factors like passenger pick-up and drop-off facilities, circulation management, and terminal arrangements were outlined to facilitate high-volume bus operations during the Kumbh Mela.

Awareness Initiatives and Follow-Up Plans

To ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims, the meeting proposed the creation of short audio-visual awareness videos to be shown on shuttle buses. These videos will aim to familiarise pilgrims with important routes, key religious sites, safety protocols, and emergency contact details, thereby enhancing travel awareness.

Concluding the session, Commissioner Shekhar Singh instructed all relevant departments to meticulously review the proposals and integrate feedback gathered during the discussions. A follow-up meeting is slated to occur in fifteen days, aimed at tracking progress, addressing unresolved issues, and further refining the transport planning for Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027.

This collaborative approach emphasises NTKMA’s commitment to ensuring effective and efficient transport solutions for the significant upcoming religious event, ultimately enhancing the experience for all participants.

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