Girish Mahajan

The Nashik district administration has proposed the development of Sadhugram to accommodate akhadas, sadhus, and associated religious groups for the upcoming 2026–28 Simhastha Kumbh Mela. According to official statements and media reports, Tapovan has been publicly announced as the proposed site for establishing Sadhugram, covering a large area earmarked for temporary Kumbh Mela infrastructure. As part of the proposal, authorities have initiated land surveys, tree-marking exercises, and public consultations to review environmental and civic concerns. Citizens, environmental groups, and local stakeholders have submitted objections and participated in hearings conducted by the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC). Government representatives, including Guardian Minister Girish Mahajan, have visited the site and addressed public queries regarding the scope and impact of the project. This commitment tracks the administrative process, official announcements, survey activities, public objections, environmental considerations, layout revisions, and future government decisions related to the development of Sadhugram.

During ongoing preparations for Nashik Kumbh Mela, over 1,800 trees in the Tapovan area are being removed for road widening and infrastructure works. In response to citizen concerns, Kumbh Mela Chief and Guardian Minister Girish Mahajan publicly committed that the administration will plant 10 new trees for every single tree removed. The replantation process will be monitored as part of the Kumbh development plan.