75% of work completed before the pilgrimage

Work at Grand Bassin is 75% complete, announced the Minister of National Infrastructure, Ajay Gunness, during his visit to the site on December 23. This project, launched six months ago, is preparing the sacred site to host the major Maha Shivaratri pilgrimage scheduled for 2026.

Costing approximately 25 million rupees (USD), the project includes several significant achievements. The drainage system, designed to remove water in case of flooding, is already operational. Workers have also improved and realigned an existing platform at the request of the Sanatan Dharma Temple Federation. In addition, four new platforms are nearing completion near the lake to allow priests and worshippers to pray in better conditions.

Ajay Gunness specified that the remaining 25% will be finished before the next pilgrimage. The Minister assured that all work is being carried out to guarantee the comfort and safety of the pilgrims. “These improvements will allow the pilgrimage to proceed smoothly,” he stated.

Furthermore, the Minister announced the continuation of other improvements, such as paving the roads leading to Grand Bassin, installing portable toilets, and renovating existing sanitary facilities. “These initiatives aim to improve the reception and travel conditions for the thousands of pilgrims who will visit the site,” he added.

Grand Bassin, a sacred site and symbol of Hinduism in Mauritius, attracts a multitude of devotees each year who come to pay homage to the god Shiva. With these new improvements, the government hopes to provide a safer, cleaner, and more suitable environment, while respecting the spiritual nature of the site.