The Nashik Municipal Corporation will conduct a special anti-encroachment drive from October 24 to 29 along key routes and public spaces ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela procession and flag-hoisting ceremony scheduled for October 30 and 31.
The civic body’s encroachment department has directed divisional officers in the Panchavati and Nashik West divisions to remove illegal obstructions, including handcarts, roadside stalls, hawkers, food vendors and other structures along routes expected to carry large numbers of devotees and dignitaries.
A communication issued by NMC deputy commissioner for encroachment Suvarna Dakhne said that sadhus, mahants, political leaders, VIPs, guests and devotees are expected to participate in the Nagar Pradakshina procession and the flag-hoisting ceremony. The civic administration said the action is intended to keep roads and public spaces clear, reduce traffic congestion and facilitate the movement of people.
According to a senior NMC official, the procession will pass through Tapovan, Panchavati, the flower market, Delhi Darwaza, Nehru Chowk, Main Road, Ravivar Karanja and Ahilyabai Holkar Bridge before reaching Ramkund. Officials have been instructed to remove encroachments along the route and keep the stretches open for the religious procession.
The Ramkund and Godavari ghat areas will receive special attention because thousands of devotees are expected to gather there for the flag-hoisting ceremony on October 31. Encroachment removal operations will also cover areas under the jurisdiction of the Panchavati, Sarkarwada and Bhadrakali police stations to support crowd management and traffic movement.
The operation will coincide with the Diwali shopping season, when Main Road and adjoining markets typically see a sharp increase in footfall. Civic officials said hawkers, handcart operators and some shopkeepers often occupy roads and footpaths by displaying goods outside establishments, contributing to traffic snarls.
Authorities have raised concerns that such obstructions could restrict the movement of devotees and vehicles during the Simhastha events and create law-and-order challenges. The NMC has directed its divisional offices to keep anti-encroachment squads operational throughout the October 24-29 drive and deploy teams at important locations during the two-day programme.
A civic official said the special operation is intended to ensure smooth movement and maintain order during the commencement of Simhastha Kumbh Mela activities in Nashik.
