As the revered Pandharpur Wari Palkhi pilgrimage approaches, serious safety concerns have emerged along the Pune-Solapur Highway. Numerous missing and broken drain covers have been reported on this crucial route, posing significant hazards to the thousands of pilgrims who will soon be walking to Pandharpur in the annual religious procession.

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 honor of Lord Vitthal. The procession typically covers long distances on foot, with many participants traveling 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 Suresh Shinde, 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 organizations 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.”