A temple town in makeover mode: Ujjain gets another Rs 950 crore push ahead of Simhastha

The Madhya Pradesh government is set to invest nearly Rs 950 crore in enhancing the temple town of Ujjain ahead of the upcoming Simhastha 2028 event. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the first phase of this development, which includes the redevelopment of the Angareshwar Mahadev Mandir and improvements to facilities at 84 nearby Mahadev temples.

Additionally, approximately 50km of new roads will be constructed. The redevelopment of the temple complex, projected to cost Rs 83 crore, will feature expanded premises, a dedicated waiting hall, shopping areas, parking, and other amenities. The first stage of these temple renovations is expected to cost around Rs 3.80 crore, encompassing flooring, wall renovations, repairs, water facilities, shelters, and improved pathways.

The majority of the budget, approximately Rs 495 crore, will be allocated to road construction and widening initiatives. To compensate farmers facing land acquisition, Rs 370 crore has been allocated. With these improvements, the connectivity for pilgrims is anticipated to significantly enhance their experience during the religious congregation, offering access to key bathing ghats and attractions.

This development is part of broader infrastructure upgrades for Ujjain, with the state government approving 128 projects worth Rs 13,851 crore across various departments in preparation for the 2028 event. Among these, notable projects include the Ujjain-Indore six-lane highway and a four-lane corridor connecting the cities, as well as a 98.73-km greenfield corridor from Ujjain to Jaora, estimated at Rs 5,017 crore.

Additional initiatives include the development of 29.2km of new ghats along the Shipra River, and the Rs 919.94 crore Kanh closed-duct diversion project, which will prevent polluted water from the Kanh river from contaminating the Shipra.