Shoolpaneshwar Narmada Ghat in Ekta Nagar Gets ₹15.10 Crore Upgrade

Gandhinagar: The Shoolpaneshwar Narmada Ghat has been upgraded by the Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority (SoUADTGA) at a cost of ₹15.10 crore.

The ghat has been expanded and its facilities modernised, providing visitors with enhanced amenities for the Aarti and religious ceremonies, as well as for gatherings of devotees. The project includes the expansion of the ghat, improved accessibility, riverbank protection, and beautification with red sandstone, murals and sculptures. The Narmada riverfront will now offer a more attractive and spiritually enriching experience for devotees and tourists.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive at Ekta Nagar tomorrow evening, October 30, 2026, and attend the Narmada Aarti at the Narmada Ghat. On October 31, National Unity Day, he will visit the Statue of Unity at Ekta Nagar.

Key features of the Narmada Ghat upgrade

Increased capacity: The visitor capacity has been increased from 4,000 to 6,000, with special seating arrangements for approximately 2,000 people.

Expansion of the ghat: To expand the stepped ghat along the riverbank and provide more space for group gatherings, the area has been extended by 31 metres × 47 metres upstream and 95 metres × 10.5 metres towards the riverbank.

Improved accessibility: A 190-metre-long, all-weather approach road has been developed through the Ekta Nursery Gate to ensure smooth movement of vehicles and pilgrims.

Dedicated area for Aarti: A well-organised courtyard for gatherings and an open-air amphitheatre-style seating arrangement have been created for the regular evening Aarti and other spiritual and religious ceremonies.

Beautification and stonework: Red sandstone cladding, carved railings and durable, anti-slip flooring have been installed to enhance the site’s appearance and ensure the safety of pilgrims.

Murals and sculptures: Murals depicting cultural and spiritual themes have been created along the route from the Ekta Nursery Gate to the ghat. In addition, civil works related to the foundation pedestal for the monumental statue of Lord Shiva, established in collaboration with BLW and NEZCC, have also been undertaken.

Riverbank protection: Reinforced cement concrete (RCC) retaining structures and associated works to regulate and direct the river’s flow have been undertaken to enhance riverbank stability and prevent erosion during monsoon floods.

Benefits of the Narmada Ghat upgrade

Enhanced convenience for pilgrims: The facilities will safely accommodate more devotees during daily Aarti, religious ceremonies and major festivals.

Improved movement and accessibility: The upgrade will improve vehicular movement along the riverfront, facilitate crowd dispersal and ensure unobstructed access for pedestrians.

Development of pilgrimage facilities: Improved facilities will be available for prayers, sacred rituals, holy bathing and gatherings of pilgrims.

Enhanced spiritual ambience: The architectural design, featuring natural red sandstone, murals and distinctive sculptures, will strengthen the site’s spiritual identity and appeal.

Long-term sustainability: The riverbank will be strengthened to prevent erosion, while measures will help ensure the durability and long-term stability of the structures against the impact of river flow.

Enhanced appeal as a tourist destination: Ekta Nagar will further strengthen its position as a leading destination for spiritual and cultural tourism, creating new livelihood opportunities for local residents. DeshGujarat