Overview
- State-backed work formally began after Chief Minister Mohan Yadav struck the first blow on Sunday, Sept 27, to start widening a 730-metre stretch to 15 metres with about Rs 9.8 crore allocated.
- Ujjain Municipal Corporation has marked 272 buildings, completed measurements and served notices, and some owners have voluntarily removed affected portions of their properties.
- Attempts to remove parts of the centuries-old Shahi Masjid have drawn sustained protests, with stone-pelting reported, police firing tear gas and large RAF and STF deployments halting demolition at times.
- The legal fight continues: a single-judge bench earlier dismissed petitions against the UMC notices and an appeal to a division bench of the Indore High Court remains pending while officials press preparations.
- Officials say the upgrades are meant to manage the huge pilgrim influx expected for Simhastha 2028, but traders warn of Diwali-season disruption and community leaders fear damage to heritage and local relations.