a day ago
Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar reviews preparedness ahead of Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage
Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar on Friday conducted a review of the preparedness ahead of the annual Pandharpur Wari — a centuries-old pilgrimage that sees lakhs of devotees, known as warkaris, walking from Dehu and Alandi in Pune to Pandharpur in Solapur.
This year, the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi will begin its journey from Dehu on June 18, Wednesday, followed by the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi from Alandi on June 19, Thursday. The spiritual procession is dedicated to Lord Vitthal and will conclude in Pandharpur on Ashadi Ekadashi, which falls on July 6.
The pilgrimage spans around 20 days and covers nearly 250 km, with daily halts in towns and villages along the route. Throughout the journey, warkaris chant devotional songs and hymns.
In view of the large gatherings anticipated and the surge in COVID-19 cases, state health officials have intensified preparedness measures. While most recent COVID-19 cases have been mild, authorities have advised individuals with co-morbidities to wear masks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and incident-free pilgrimage.
State officials said there will be small dispensaries (Aapla Dawakhana) every 5 km along the route and 331 ambulances that will be on call 24×7 (dial 108 or 102), besides identifying 45 intensive care units in case of emergencies. Around 1,300 healthcare personnel will also be deputed for the purpose, including 138 specialists and 149 medical officers. Around 437 nurses will provide care as part of the measures.
'There are cases of dysentery, diarrhoea, fever, and even heart-related issues, so we must remain extremely vigilant,' said a senior health official. Officials at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also emphasised that ensuring safe and hygienic conditions is a priority. 'There are numerous food stalls and hotels along the route serving devotees. It is crucial that the food provided is unadulterated,' they said.
