Works for Simhastha to be held in April-May this year at Ujjain are being completed at a rapid pace. These have further beautified the city. Compared to Simhastha-2004, ten times more budget has been allocated for Simhastha-2016. So far, 80 percent of sanctioned works under this budget have been completed. Most of the works are of permanent natures, benefit of which will be availed by residents of Ujjain even after Simhastha.
Works of permanent nature mainly include bridges over Kshipra river, beautiful ghats, railway over bridges, inner ring roads, attractive crossings, 450-bed modern hospital and interpretation centre. The city presents most attractive look when streetlights light up and light from high-mast poles is cast on plantation at dividers. For Simhastha, 100 roads costing Rs. 362 crore have been constructed at Ujjain. All main roads have been connected with inner road.
Banks of Kshipra river are being spruced up for devotees. Ghats present a very beautiful look when seen from height. This time, new ghats measuring 5 kilometres have been constructed. With this, 8.34 kilometre long ghats will be available on both banks of Kshipra. The State Government has worked on Khan river diversion scheme to ensure availability of clean water for holy bath in Kshipra river. Budget of Rs. 20 crore has been sanctioned to Indore district to clean Khan river. This would ensure continuous flow of clean water in Kshipra river. Polythene and other waste are being removed from Kshipra river through cleaning drive with people's participation.
Constructions at Samrat Vikramaditya hillock and beautification of 84 Mahadev and other temples have made an indelible mark of beauty in the city. At Ujjain, 2 water treatment plants of 7.75 MGD capacity have been established. A 6-storey modern hospital costing Rs 93 crore is being constructed on Agar Road. Construction of 450-bed hospital is major work of permanent nature. Paintings on bridges and ghats by local artists have given new dimensions of beauty.