A ropeway between Someshwar waterfall to Someshwar Mahadev temple, three Ferris wheels, and a cultural theme park are to be the latest additions in the Namami Goda project, according to the detailed project report (DPR) submitted to the civic commissioner on Friday.
Six months ago, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) appointed a consultant to prepare the DPR, allocating a substantial INR 2,780 crores for the extensive beautification of the Godavari river before the city hosts the revered Kumbh Mela in 2027.
Uday Dharmadhikari, an official within the NMC, told TOI, “The DPR has been formally submitted to the municipal commissioner and is now poised for a presentation to a diverse group of stakeholders. This includes engineers, architects, legal experts, and industrialists, whose valuable insights will be integrated into the DPR. Our aim is to refine the proposal and submit it to the government within the next three months. With the DPR’s endorsement, we are set to initiate the tender process ahead of the Kumbh Mela’s commencement.”
NMC commissioner Ashok Karanjkar acknowledged that he is yet to delve into the details of the DPR, but assured a thorough review and subsequent discussions.
The DPR outlines a significant allocation of INR 927 crore for the establishment of new sewage lines and the replacement of existing ones. A substantial portion, totaling INR 622 crores, has been earmarked for the construction of six new Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), projected to handle a cumulative capacity of 338 million liters per day (MLD) by 2040. Additionally, existing STPs are set to undergo upgrades costing INR 398 crores to meet the norms of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).
With a budget of INR 833 crores, the Godavari river’s beautification project and ghat development work take center stage. Notably, a 1.1-kilometer-long ropeway, spanning from the scenic Someshwar waterfall to the revered Someshwar Mahadev temple, is to be installed at the cost of INR 70 crore.
There will be installation of three towering Ferris wheels, each soaring to a height of 120 meters. These attractions are planned near Someshwar waterfall, Nasardi Godavari conflux, and the North Western part of the city, with a combined cost of INR 400 crores.
Furthermore, the project envisions a Cultural and Heritage Theme Park, a venture estimated at INR 300 crores. The Godavari beautification initiative will also encompass a boating facility connecting Goda Park and Kavya Udyan.