Nanded, October 16: With an estimated five lakh devotees expected to arrive next month for the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the Nanded district administration has begun large-scale preparations to manage the massive gathering.
Officials said special arrangements are being made for accommodation, food, sanitation, and parking, as people from across Maharashtra — including Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Parbhani, Jalna, Latur, Dharashiv, Hingoli, Beed, Nandurbar, Dhule and Jalgaon — are expected to visit the city.
A review meeting chaired by Collector Rahul Kardile on Wednesday directed all departments to complete their work on time and ensure coordination for smooth conduct of the event. The collector also reviewed transportation plans for pilgrims arriving by trains, buses, and private vehicles.
The Public Works Department has been asked to speed up road and drainage repairs and prioritise the creation of helipads, temporary sanitation units, and pandals at the main congregation sites.
Officials said schools, colleges, marriage halls and open grounds across the district are being identified to accommodate pilgrims.
The Takhat Sachkhand Shri Hazur Abchalnagar Sahib, one of the five Sikh seats of highest authority, is the central site for the commemoration. The administration said it aims to ensure a seamless experience for visitors during the week-long event, which will also feature religious discourses, prayers and processions.
