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Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday directed officials to accelerate work under the Pandharpur Development Plan, emphasising the need to strengthen infrastructure for both pilgrims and local residents ahead of the annual Ashadhi Wari.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at Sahyadri Guest House, the Chief Minister said that ensuring a smooth and safe experience for Warkari devotees must remain the top priority. He instructed departments to ensure that no inconvenience is caused to pilgrims travelling along the traditional Palkhi routes associated with Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj.

Upgrading facilities along Palkhi routes

Officials informed the Chief Minister that a comprehensive development plan worth approximately Rs 1,303 crore has been drawn up for the Palkhi routes. Of this, Rs 964 crore has been sanctioned, and nearly Rs 959 crore has already been spent. Most of the planned works have been completed, including the construction of sanitation facilities with septic tanks, installation of high-mast lighting, development of resting platforms, road repairs, protective walls, and land levelling.

The Chief Minister stressed the need to further upgrade resting points, commonly used as halts by devotees during the procession. He called for improved amenities at these locations and directed authorities to develop permanent infrastructure to support the large influx of pilgrims each year.

Preparations for Ashadhi Ekadashi underway

This year, Ashadhi Ekadashi will be observed on July 25. The Palkhi procession of Sant Tukaram Maharaj is scheduled to begin on July 7, followed by the procession of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj on July 8.

Given the scale of the annual pilgrimage, the administration has been asked to step up preparedness well in advance. The Chief Minister instructed officials to coordinate with trustees of the Palkhi processions to assess any additional requirements and ensure timely provision of facilities.

Authorities have also been asked to replicate and expand last year’s arrangements, including the installation of temporary hangars for shelter. Officials said that while around 3,700 mobile toilets were deployed along the routes last year, nearly 5,000 units are planned for this year to accommodate the expected rise in footfall.

Highway works nearing completion

Infrastructure improvements along key stretches of the Palkhi routes are also progressing. Officials noted that works being carried out under the National Highways Authority are close to completion, particularly on the Dive Ghat–Hadapsar and Baramati–Indapur sections. The Chief Minister directed that any pending highway works be completed on priority to avoid disruptions during the pilgrimage.

Senior officials, including representatives from rural development, urban development, public health, and district administration, attended the meeting and reviewed the progress of ongoing projects. The Pune divisional administration presented an overview of the works, stating that most preparations are on track.

With lakhs of devotees expected to participate in the Ashadhi Wari, the state government is focusing on ensuring seamless coordination across departments to facilitate safe and efficient movement along the historic pilgrimage routes.