Haridwar: Preparations for the 2027 Kumbh Mela have started on the ground. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reached Haridwar and laid the foundation stone for 34 major development projects worth ₹234.55 crore from the Kumbh Mela Control Building (CCR).

The government said these projects are permanent and will not only help in organising the Kumbh Mela but will also support the long-term development of Haridwar city.

Focus on Ghats, Roads, Water and Facilities for Devotees

The 34 approved projects include strengthening river ghats, improving roads and transport, ensuring proper drinking water supply, and creating better facilities for pilgrims.

According to the government, the aim is to make the Kumbh Mela 2027 safe, well-organised and grand. The main focus is on road and transport arrangements so that traffic and crowd management can be handled smoothly during the fair.

Sector-wise spending plan:

• Ghat construction and irrigation works: 7 projects (₹70.54 crore)

• Road and transport works: 12 projects (₹127.23 crore)

• Drinking water and water supply: 9 projects (₹18.11 crore)

• Pilgrim facilities and supporting infrastructure: 6 projects (₹18.67 crore)

High-Level Review Meeting at CCR

After the foundation stone ceremony, CM Dhami held a high-level review meeting at the CCR building. He instructed officials to complete all work on time and maintain good quality.

The Chief Minister said that timelines have been fixed for both permanent and temporary works and that progress will be reviewed regularly. He asked all departments to work together to ensure smooth arrangements for parking, drinking water, toilets, security and bathing ghats.

All Major Works to Be Completed by October

The Chief Minister directed that all major Kumbh-related works should be finished by October. He said that temporary works should also be finalised quickly and completed on time. A third-party audit will be carried out to ensure quality of construction.

Officials were told to follow zone-wise and sector-wise targets and regularly review progress.

Special Focus on Traffic, Safety and Cleanliness

Keeping in mind the large number of devotees expected, CM Dhami asked officials to make proper arrangements for transport and parking. Alternative routes will be identified and a detailed traffic plan will be prepared. Special facilities will be arranged for women and elderly devotees.

He also stressed the need for better cleanliness with the help of voluntary organisations. Boat and bike ambulances will be arranged for quick medical help. Adequate police force, cyber security, fire safety and rescue teams will be deployed during the fair.