NMC drafts Rs131-crore disaster plan for Kumbh

Nashik: The civic body has prepared a Rs131 crore disaster management plan for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela and submitted it to state govt.The proposal focuses heavily on strengthening the fire brigade and enhancing medical facilities across the city, both of which are considered crucial ahead of the massive religious congregation scheduled in 2027.According to the plan, Rs91 crore has been earmarked for upgrading the fire brigade department. This includes procuring new fire tenders, rapid response vehicles, modern rescue equipment and other specialised machinery to improve the corporation's capability to handle emergencies.The remaining Rs 40 crore has been allocated to the NMC's medical department for upgrading critical health infrastructure, particularly operation theatres and Intensive Care Units in civic-run hospitals. The funds will also be used to procure ambulances and enhance overall medical preparedness before the mega event.Municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri said the disaster management plan was prepared specifically keeping in mind the scale and challenges of the upcoming Kumbh Mela.Other senior officials from the NMC said the fire brigade currently operates with an ageing fleet, with nearly 80 percent of its vehicles more than 15 years old, making replacements essential for maintaining effective response times.