As the annual Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage approaches, safety concerns have escalated along the Pune Solapur Highway.
Pilgrims, many walking barefoot and in large groups, are at heightened risk due to numerous missing or damaged drain covers on this vital route. Local commuters and activists have raised alarms about the deteriorating state of the highway’s drainage infrastructure. Large sections of the road feature exposed drains or covers that are cracked, loose, or entirely missing. These open drains create dangerous gaps in the roadway, especially hazardous for the elderly, children, and barefoot devotees participating in the Wari. Photographs and videos circulating on social media show several stretches where drain covers have not been replaced for months, despite repeated complaints to the authorities. With the Wari drawing near, the risk of accidents and injuries is at an all-time high.
The Pandharpur Wari is one of Maharashtra’s most significant religious events, attracting lakhs of devotees who walk for days in honour of Lord Vitthal. The procession typically covers long distances on foot, with many participants travelling in large groups, singing and chanting along the way. Open and broken drain covers present a real danger of slips, falls, and even serious injuries, particularly during night marches or in crowded conditions. “Every year, we see people tripping or getting hurt because of these open drains. This year, the situation seems worse,” said a volunteer with a local Wari support group. With the date of the Wari fast approaching, pressure is mounting on the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) and local municipal bodies to take swift action. Civic groups and religious organisations have submitted urgent petitions demanding immediate repairs and the installation of sturdy, visible drain covers.
A senior MSRDC official stated, “We are aware of the issue and have begun inspection drives along the highway. Emergency teams are being deployed to replace missing covers and repair damaged sections before the Wari commences.” However, the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, as the scale of the problem is substantial. The highway, a crucial link between Pune and Solapur, is used by thousands daily, including heavy vehicles, buses, and trucks. The influx of pilgrims during the Wari adds to the strain on the infrastructure. Residents and commuters have expressed frustration over the delayed response from authorities. “The authorities have been aware of the issue for months, but only now are they taking action. It’s disheartening to see such negligence, especially when people’s safety is at stake,” remarked a local resident.
As the pilgrimage draws closer, the urgency of addressing these infrastructure issues becomes more critical. The safety of thousands of devotees hinges on the timely and effective repair of the highway’s drainage system. Failure to do so could lead to preventable accidents and tarnish the sanctity of this revered tradition. In conclusion, while the authorities have acknowledged the problem and initiated repairs, the situation remains precarious. Ongoing vigilance and swift action are imperative to ensure the safety of all those participating in the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage.
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