Pune Police Bans Entry To Dive Ghat Hill Area On June 22 During Ashadhi Palkhi Procession Over Safety Concerns
Pune Police Bans Entry To Dive Ghat Hill Area On June 22 During Ashadhi Palkhi Procession Over Safety Concerns
Pune, June 19, 2025 – In view of the annual Ashadhi Palkhi procession and to ensure public safety, the Pune City Police have issued a prohibitory order restricting entry to the Dive Ghat hill area on June 22, 2025, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023.
The order issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Branch-1) and Additional Commissioner of Police Ranjan Kumar Sharma, aims to prevent potential accidents during the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi journey which will pass through Fursungi, Vadki Gaon, Dive Ghat, and onward to Saswad.
According to the police, widening work on the Dive Ghat section (approx. 4 km) is ongoing under the NHAI by a private contractor. This area has become unstable and slippery, especially after heavy rains were forecast for that day by the Indian Meteorological Department.
The terrain is known for its steep cliffs, which often attract tourists and content creators who shoot photos and reels. With the large crowd expected during the palkhi procession and the possibility of landslides or rockfalls, the Dive Ghat hilltop has been declared off-limits from 00:00 hrs to 24:00 hrs on June 22.
The order warns that any violation of this restriction will invite legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) 2023.
Officials reiterated that these preventive steps are crucial due to the anticipated heavy footfall of devotees and Warkaris, and to safeguard the sanctity and smooth conduct of the Palkhi tradition.
For public safety and to support a peaceful yatra, citizens are urged to follow police instructions and avoid the restricted zones.
