Pandharpur: While the number of COVID-19 cases continued to rise in other parts of the state, Pandarpur continued to be a green zone up until now. 

But in a recent development two days ago, two COVID-19 patients were found in the city spreading the scare of a possible outbreak. 

Seven other people who came in contact with them were also reported to be positive on Monday morning. 

The new positive cases of COVID-19 contagion were found at Karmaveer Bhaurao Audumbar Patil Nagar, Old Peth, New Peth, and Pradakshina marg. The administration is tracing the people who came in contact with these patients.

As the positive cases were found during the auspicious Ashadhi yatra, there is an atmosphere of fear among the devotees as well as the citizens of the city. 

Earlier, the state government of Maharashtra cancelled the iconic Ashadhi Palkhi procession considering the rapid spread of COVID-19 disease. Giving a break to the age-old traditions, this year it was cancelled for the safety of people.

Owing to the pandemic, centuries-old traditions of carrying padukas (slippers) of saint Dnyaneshwar and saint Tukaram was also affected. This year responsibility of transporting holy padukas is taken by the state government and they are expected to reach Pandharpur on 30th June.