Pune: Bike Ambulance Volunteers Save 27 Lives During “Ashadhi Wari 2026 At Dive Ghat
Pune: Bike Ambulance Volunteers Save 27 Lives During “Ashadhi Wari 2026 At Dive Ghat
Pune, July 25, 2026: Continuing a tradition of dedicated service, a team of over 21 Bike Ambulance volunteers came together once again this year to assist thousands of Warkaris during the Ashadhi Wari at the challenging Dive Ghat stretch. The volunteers reported for duty at Point No. 15 – Dive Ghat, as early as 7:00 AM, remaining on standby throughout the Palkhi procession.
With an estimated over 12 lakh devotees passing through Dive Ghat this year, the steep terrain, intense heat and heavy crowd posed significant challenges for emergency medical services. In such situations, conventional ambulances often struggle to reach patients quickly due to traffic congestion and the sheer volume of pilgrims. Bike ambulances are able to navigate through the crowds rapidly, providing immediate first aid and stabilizing patients until advanced medical assistance arrives.
The volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the day, responding to cases of dehydration, exhaustion, heat-related illnesses and other medical emergencies.
Their swift intervention helped save more than 27 lives, ensuring that critically ill devotees received timely assistance.
The team also appreciated the proactive presence of the Pune City Police. Additional Commissioner of Police Sanjay Darade and Deputy Commissioner of Police Dr. Prashant Amrutkar personally remained stationed at Dive Ghat until the Palkhi successfully crossed the most difficult stretch of the ghat, closely monitoring the movement and ensuring smooth coordination between emergency responders and police personnel.
Speaking after the service, volunteer Prafful Sarda & Kalyanaraman Venkatesan said, “The weather was extremely hot and the number of Warkaris was overwhelming. In such conditions, every minute matters. When ambulances are delayed due to heavy crowds, bike ambulances become the first responders. Our volunteers went beyond their call of duty and did everything possible to provide immediate medical assistance. We are grateful that our team could help save more than 27 precious lives.”
The Bike Ambulance initiative has become an integral part of the annual Wari, demonstrating how trained volunteers on two-wheelers can bridge the critical gap between medical emergencies and hospital care. Their selfless service continues to ensure that thousands of pilgrims complete their spiritual journey safely, reflecting the true spirit of compassion and community service that defines the Wari.
