Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Wednesday inaugurated the land foundation for the Hariyakhredi Water Augmentation Project, a Rs 1,133.67 crore initiative aimed at ensuring uninterrupted potable water supply in Ujjain during Simhastha 2028 and beyond. Addressing the gathering in Hariyakhredi, Dr Yadav said that the project is a crucial step in transforming Ujjain into a global spiritual tourism hub under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project will construct new intake wells at Silarkhedi, Gambhir, Undasa, and Sahibkhedi, along with modern water treatment facilities and 17 overhead tanks. A 708 km pipeline distribution network, including replacement of old ACP pipelines, will be developed, providing 49,087 new domestic water connections. Dr Yadav highlighted that during Simhastha, the city’s population is expected to surge to nearly 21.83 lakh, including a daily influx of approximately 2.28 crore devotees on peak bathing days, making water infrastructure critical. Alongside the water project, the Chief Minister inaugurated and laid foundations for 11 development works worth Rs 47.23 crore, covering urban infrastructure, sanitation, and public amenities.

 

Dr. Yadav also paid tribute to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay on his death anniversary, noting that government initiatives, such as student awards, kits for sanitation workers, and maternal and child health programs, reflect Upadhyay’s Antyodaya philosophy of uplifting the last person in society. Speaking on Ujjain’s broader development, Dr Yadav announced the establishment of a Dhanvantari Ayurveda Institute and reaffirmed efforts to develop all Krishna-related religious sites as model pilgrimage centers. He noted that liquor bans in Ujjain, Orchha, and other sites have set a precedent for responsible governance. Employment-oriented industrial units, including a new ready-made garments facility near Ujjain, will provide jobs for women and youth. Dr Yadav highlighted key infrastructure projects in preparation for Simhastha 2028. New bridges at Ramghat, four-lane roads connecting Ujjain and Indore, and a metro plan for Ujjain are among developments that aim to modernise the city while respecting its spiritual heritage.

 

The Namo Van near Upadhyay’s statue and various greenery initiatives reflect a commitment to integrating environmental considerations with urban planning. The Chief Minister emphasised that Ujjain’s position on the global map of spiritual tourism will strengthen, with adequate facilities for millions of pilgrims. He assured that safe drinking water, sanitation, roads, and public utilities are being developed well in advance. The event was attended by MLA Anil Jain (Kaluheda), former Minister Paras Jain, Ujjain Mayor Mukesh Tatwal, Municipal Corporation Chairperson Kalawati Yadav, and numerous local representatives and residents, reflecting widespread public participation in preparations for one of India’s largest religious congregations.