980kg plastic collected from Godavari’s origin under ‘Clean Kumbh 2027’ drive

Nashik: The Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) launched the ambitious ‘Clean Kumbh 2027' initiative with a massive cleanliness drive at Brahmagiri Hills, Trimbakeshwar on Sunday.The event, titled ‘Swachh Brahmagiri Abhiyan,' led to the collection of 980kg of plastic waste from the origin of the Godavari river.The drive that marked the World Water Day, was a collaboration between the NTKMA, various Akhadas, Central Bank of India, and the Satsang Foundation. It brought a coalition of religious leaders, govt officials, and youth volunteers to protect the ecologically-sensitive trekking trails.Prominent religious representatives who participated included Mahant Shankaranand Saraswati Maharaj of Shri Panchayati Anand Akhada, Thanapati Mahant Shantigiriji Maharaj of Shri Panchayati Dashnam Avahan Akhada, Thanapati Mahant Durganand Brahmachari of Shri Panchayati Agni Akhada, Thanapati Mahant Danmuniji Maharaj and Shivanandani Maharaj of Shri Panchayati Bada Udasin Nirvani Akhada, Mahant Digambar Ajaypuriji Maharaj of Shri Panchayati Mahanirvani Akhada, and Thanapati Mahant Gopaldasji Maharaj and Bhagatramji Maharaj of Shri Panchayati Naya Udasin Akhada.NTKMA commissioner Shekhar Singh said, "The ‘Clean Kumbh 2027' strategy aims to implement systematic waste management and awareness campaigns across the entire pilgrimage region in the coming months."The initiative aims to transform Kumbh Mela into a ‘sustainable pilgrimage experience' by fostering environmental stewardship among locals and visitors alike.