Nashik to Build Three Helipads Ahead of 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela
In a significant move to prepare for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela scheduled for 2027, authorities in Nashik have announced plans to develop three helipads. These helipads are designed to facilitate the movement of pilgrims and VIPs, as well as enhance emergency response capabilities during the mega religious gathering.
Coordinated Effort to Alleviate Traffic Congestion
The initiative is being spearheaded by the state tourism department in close coordination with the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA). The primary objective is to reduce traffic congestion on roads, particularly on peak bathing days when the city is expected to witness an unprecedented influx of devotees.
NTKMA commissioner Shekhar Singh revealed that three locations have been identified for the helipads—two within the city limits and one in the rural parts of Nashik. "The locations are yet to be finalised, but helipads will help ferry pilgrims and also facilitate movement of VIPs and senior leaders during the Kumbh Mela," Singh stated. He emphasized that this proposal is part of broader efforts to alleviate pressure on the city's road network.
Building on Past Experiences and Expanding Services
During the previous Simhastha Kumbh Mela held in Nashik in 2015, private operators offered helicopter services connecting Nashik with Trimbakeshwar and Shirdi. Similarly, during the recent Kumbh Mela at Prayagraj, several private companies operated helicopter services to ferry pilgrims from nearby destinations.
Nandkumar Raut, deputy director of the directorate of tourism in Nashik, confirmed the tourism department's plans. "We are planning heli tourism circuits in Nashik, including helicopter services from Nashik to Trimbakeshwar and other religious places. Joyrides are also proposed to be introduced during the Kumbh Mela," Raut explained. The department has requested the Kumbh Mela Authority to earmark suitable locations for helipads to introduce these helicopter services during the Kumbh period.
Anticipating Massive Footfall and Infrastructure Upgrades
The previous Kumbh Mela in Nashik in 2015 attracted approximately 2.5 crore devotees. For the 2027 event, authorities estimate a massive footfall of nearly 12 crore devotees. The three main Amrit Snans, considered the most auspicious holy baths, are scheduled between August and September 2027.
Given the projected surge in pilgrims, several infrastructure upgrades are currently underway in the city:
- An additional terminal building with a capacity to handle 1,000 passengers at a time is being constructed at Nashik airport. The existing terminal building currently has a seating capacity of about 300 passengers.
- Around Rs 600 crore is being invested by the state government for airport expansion.
- An additional Rs 600 crore is being spent by defence PSU Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), which manages the airport, on developing a parallel runway, procuring equipment, and related works.
Enhancing Logistics for a Smooth Event
Apart from airport expansion, authorities are actively exploring ways to further boost helicopter services in and around Nashik during the Kumbh Mela 2027. This initiative aims to manage the anticipated surge in visitors and ensure smoother logistics, contributing to a more organized and efficient religious event.
