CM Yadav reviews Simhastha-2028 preparations in Ujjain:Says, ‘Facilities must expand 100 km’; 40 crore devotees are expected in gathering

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav visited Ujjain on Saturday for a one-day tour and inaugurated a workshop themed “Lessons from Simhastha-2016, Commitment to Simhastha-2028.” The workshop focused on preparations for Simhastha-2028, infrastructure development, and departmental action plans for the mega religious gathering. The Chief Minister arrived at the helipad at around 11:25 AM before proceeding directly to Anjushree Hotel, where the workshop was held. Officials who had served during Simhastha-2016 shared their experiences and discussed the challenges and preparations required for the 2028 edition. Ujjain Divisional Commissioner Ashish Singh presented the roadmap for Simhastha-2028. Senior officials from across Madhya Pradesh attended the event. ‘Simhastha-2028 will be the world’s largest religious gathering’ Addressing the workshop, Dr Mohan Yadav said Simhastha-2028 is expected to attract nearly 40 crore devotees, making it the largest religious gathering in the world. He stressed that preparations must begin well in advance to accommodate such an unprecedented influx of pilgrims. Traffic management a major priority CM recalled that traffic congestion had emerged as one of the biggest challenges during Simhastha-2016, with severe road jams reported at several locations. He said authorities must coordinate closely with neighbouring states to ensure the smooth movement of devotees entering Madhya Pradesh from border areas and to improve overall traffic management during the event. Temple restoration and better connectivity Dr. Yadav said significant infrastructure improvements have taken place since the 2016 edition. He noted that the Fatehabad railway line, which was not operational during the previous Simhastha, is now functional. He also said that major roads have since been widened. Describing Ujjain as the “City of the Gods,” the Chief Minister said devotees would visit not only the Kshipra River for the holy dip but also the city’s many temples and religious sites. He announced the government’s commitment to restoring and renovating all temples before Simhastha-2028. Expand facilities within a 100-km radius The Chief Minister said the government would strengthen public facilities so that devotees would not have to rely on private hotels or buildings for accommodation. He directed officials to expand amenities at hotels and roadside eateries along routes extending up to 100 kilometres from Ujjain to better serve the expected influx of pilgrims. Joint planning with neighbouring states Dr Yadav stressed the need for coordinated planning with neighbouring states to manage the movement of pilgrims and other logistical requirements. He said the government aims to make Simhastha-2028 a better-organised and historic event through effective planning, inter-state coordination and collective efforts.