‘Mamleshwar Lok’ Project Withdrawn in Omkareshwar After Public and Saints’ Opposition

The Madhya Pradesh government has withdrawn the ₹120 crore ‘Mamleshwar Lok’ corridor project in Omkareshwar following strong opposition from local residents and saints on November 18. Officials confirmed the decision.

Omkareshwar, located on the banks of the Narmada River, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a major Hindu pilgrimage site.

Additional District Magistrate Kashiram Bardole stated that the administration decided to withdraw the project considering the sentiments of locals and saints. However, he added that if local representatives and the saint community agree, a new plan could be developed at another location in Omkareshwar.

The administration had started surveys for the proposed Mamleshwar Lok, but opposition from residents caused businesses to shut for two days, creating difficulties for pilgrims visiting from across India and abroad. Essential services such as bottled water and snacks were disrupted.

The proposed site for Mamleshwar Lok included several ashrams and dharmashalas, prompting strong protests from the saint community.

Officials noted that the state government had planned to complete the Mamleshwar Lok corridor before the Simhasth Kumbh Mela in Ujjain in 2028. The project, costing over ₹120 crore, aimed to develop a 6.50-hectare corridor around the ancient Mamleshwar temple.

The corridor was intended to showcase Omkareshwar’s religious and cultural heritage through various constructions while providing special facilities for pilgrims.