The first phase of the Mahakal Lok corridor at Mahakaleshwar temple, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 11, 2022. While the entire project is estimated to be around Rs 850 crore, the first phase of the Mahakal Lok corridor has been developed for Rs 316 crore.
With an aim to decongest the area and focus on conservation and restoration of heritage structures, the Mahakal Lok corridor at Mahakaleshwar will be developed in two phases. Under this project, the Mahakaleshwar temple precinct will be expanded approximately seven times. The people footfall that is around 1.5 crore per annum is expected to be doubled with this project.
Mahakal Lok corridor: Phase 1
As part of phase 1, there are two majestic gateways namely Nandi Dwar and Pinaki Dwar in the corridor. The two gateways have been constructed near the corridor’s entrance.
Spread over 2.5 hectares, the area of the plaza is surrounded by a lotus pond that has the statue of Shiva along with fountains. As part of the project, the Mahakal Path that is around 900 meters contains 108 pillars that depict the Anand Tandav Swaroopof Lord Shiva. Also installed along the Mahakal Path are many religious sculptures depicting Lord Shiva’s life. The mural wall along the path is based on stories about the act of creation, the birth of Ganesha, story of Sati and Daksha among others from Shiva Purana.
Phase I of the Mahakal Lok project will include world-class modern amenities including park, multi-storied parking lots, shops, solar lighting, pilgrims facility center, light and sound system, water pipeline and sewer line.
The entire Mahakal Lok corridor will be monitored 24×7 by artificial intelligence and CCTV cameras.
Mahakal Lok corridor: Phase 2
Phase 2 of the Mahakal Lok project will focus on expansion of the northern and eastern sides of the temple. As part of phase 2, other areas in Ujjain including Begam Bagh Road, Maharajwada, Mahal Gate, Hari Phatak Bridge and Ramghat façade will be developed.
