Rs18.5 crore state nod for infra work at Nashik hills

Maharashtra government on Wednesday approved Rs18.5 crore for "fast-track" development of civil works at the Mangi-Tungi hills of Nashik, where the tallest idol (108 feet) of Jains, Bhagwan Rishabhdev, is set to be installed on February 11.

The rural development department, led by minister Pankaja Munde, approved the initial funds of Rs18.5 crore for the civil work in the temple area spread in 100 acres. The expenses would cover construction of roads, electrification, sheds, toilets, lifts for devotees, CCTV network and one month's food bill for policemen who will be guarding the venue. Rs5 lakh is set aside for preparation of a helipad for VIPs.

Interestingly, only 45 days are left for the month-long grand event which is expected to attract over 10 lakh devotees of the Digamber Jain community from across India. No civil work in the area has been initiated till now, say members of the temple committee.

The government is expected to approve another Rs22 crore for the civil works in next few days. "Rs40 crore are required to carry out the required works, as per the plan submitted by the Nahsik district collector," said a highly-placed official.

"No civil and developmental work has been initiated till now from the administration. With the approval of funds, we hope that the process would be fast-tracked and completed in time," said Ravindrakirti Swami, president of Bhagwan Rishabhdev Murti Nirman Kameti Mangitungi.

Swami said that the Murti Pranpratishtha is slated from 11-17 February and Abhishek will be held 18 February to 6 March. dna attempted to get in touch with the Nashik Collector Deependra Singh Kushwah to understand how he has planned to complete the work in a span of six works. However, he could not be contacted.

A 108 foot high idol of Rishabhdev, which is the highest Jain idol in the world, is being carved from a single stone here at the 2,500ft high hill. This is also called "statue of ahimsa". Idol is being constructed by the community.
Mangi-Tungi are two hills of Sahyadri ranges and are known for Jain pilgrimage "Shri Digambar Jain Siddhakshetra". There are many temples of Jain Tirthankaras located in this area. The place is also said to be related to Lord Rama and Sita, Lord Krishna and his elder brother Balarama. There is a cave named Balbhadra cave where idols of Balarama and many others are installed.