THE ALLAHABAD Development Authority's (ADA) plan for Ardh Kumbh Mela-2007 has received a major setback following slashing of the grant for the mela by the State Government.
The ADA had submitted a proposal for a Rs 6 crore grant for Ardh Kumbh mela. The ADA planned to construct two pucca bathing ghats, yatri shades and roads. However, the government has allocated only Rs 1.50 crore.
The ADA officials are now in a dilemma on how to carry on the Ardh Kumbh preparations. The ADA has demanded money for construction of ghats at water sports complex Kydganj, Sangam, Arail and road from Triveni Pushp to Sangam for Ardh Kumbh. Besides, a proposal of construction of two permanent yatri shades near Triveni Pushp also run into rough weather as the grant had been cut.
Notably, State Urban Housing Development Minister Azam Khan who visited the mela area in January this year had asked the concerned departments to set up permanent structures in the mela area. Acting upon the minister's directives, the ADA then submitted a plan of Rs 6 crore. However, the grant was reduced.
Hence, considering the problem of devotees staying specially from Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand the ADA had planned to erect two yatri shades this time at Arail side. These might be given to Homeguards and police personnel to use after the mela.