NASHIK: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the state government and the civic administration over Nashik’s deteriorating road conditions, alleging corruption in Kumbh Mela-related development works and questioning the administration’s preparedness for the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela.Raut was speaking to reporters during his visit to Nashik ahead of the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s protest march scheduled to be held in the city on Monday against poor roads and civic issues. He also reviewed preparations for the march and held discussions with party office-bearers regarding mobilisation efforts.Targeting the govt over the condition of roads, Raut claimed that seven people have lost their lives in pothole-related accidents in Nashik. Referring to the condition of Trimbak Road, he alleged that more than 100 people had suffered injuries because of potholes and damaged road surfaces. He accused ministers and local authorities of ignoring public grievances despite mounting anger among citizens.Taking a swipe at the state’s preparations for the upcoming Kumbh Mela, Raut questioned how the administration would successfully host one of the world’s largest religious congregations when it had failed to address basic infrastructure issues within the city.“Those who cannot even fill potholes in Nashik are now preparing to conduct the Kumbh Mela,” Raut said. He further claimed that several sadhus and seers had expressed concerns about alleged corruption in Kumbh-related works and demanded greater transparency in the execution of infrastructure projects linked to the mega event.Raut also took a dig at chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, referring to earlier statements describing Nashik as a city “adopted” by the CM. Questioning the city’s present condition, he said residents continued to face poor roads and inadequate civic infrastructure despite repeated assurances of development.Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks on modern road-building technology, Raut said the ground reality in Nashik painted a contrasting picture. He alleged that while claims of advanced infrastructure development were being made, citizens were struggling with pothole-ridden roads across several parts of the city.Appealing to residents to participate in Monday’s protest in large numbers, Raut said the march would seek to highlight issues affecting Nashik residents and hold the govt accountable for the city’s deteriorating road network and civic infrastructure. He said the Shiv Sena (UBT) would continue to raise public concerns and demand corrective measures from the administration.