Pune Administration Revamps Facilities Along Ashadhi Wari Routes; Collector Issues Key Directives
Pune Administration Revamps Facilities Along Ashadhi Wari Routes; Collector Issues Key Directives
Pune, April 25, 2026:
Preparations for the annual Ashadhi Wari are in full swing, with district authorities introducing significant upgrades to infrastructure and facilities along the palkhi routes. District Collector Jitendra Dudi chaired a review meeting to assess readiness and ensure smooth arrangements for lakhs of devotees expected to participate.
The meeting focused on routes taken by the palkhis of Sant Tukaram Maharaj from Dehu, Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj from Alandi, and Sant Sopandev from Saswad. Officials reviewed progress on decisions taken in a previous meeting held in February and issued fresh instructions to various departments.
Among the key measures, land acquisition has been directed to facilitate road widening near the Inamdar Wada area on the Tukaram Maharaj palkhi route. Road repairs in Dehu Cantonment limits will be carried out urgently through the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation after necessary approvals. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure that road and metro-related works in Akurdi are completed before the arrival of the palkhi.
At Loni Kalbhor, arrangements for halt points will be enhanced with additional temporary structures, water tankers, and sanitation facilities. The irrigation department has been directed to release water into the Nira River two days before the palkhi’s arrival.
In Alandi, plans are underway to increase the height of the newly constructed Bhakti Sopaan bridge in a ‘skywalk’ format and to create a permanent space for darshan queues. Nearly 180 CCTV cameras will be installed in the darshan area to strengthen security.
Further, barricading and lighting arrangements in the Dive Ghat stretch will be managed by the National Highways Authority of India. Dedicated ambulances will be provided for the palkhis of Tukaram Maharaj and Dnyaneshwar Maharaj to ensure medical readiness.
To streamline coordination and manage traffic and safety, officers of Deputy Superintendent of Police rank will be appointed as nodal officers along the routes.
Speaking at the meeting, Collector Dudi emphasised that the palkhi procession is among the most disciplined religious gatherings in the world and stressed that there should be no gaps in essential services such as roads, water supply, sanitation, and healthcare. He urged all departments to work in coordination to provide a safe and comfortable experience for devotees.
