Pune: A tragic accident claimed the life of an 18-year-old tourist, Anil Vitthal Awate, at Rajgad Fort on Sunday, January 26, Republic Day. The incident occurred around 6 PM when a falling rock struck Anil on the head while he was descending near the Pali Darwaja (Gate) of the fort.

Anil, a resident of Dhayari, Pune, and originally from Khadgaon, Bhabat (Taluka Selu), Parbhani district, had joined a group of over 100 individuals from the Dhayari Police Recruitment Academy on a trekking trip to Rajgad Fort.

According to eyewitness accounts, the tragic incident occurred near the Pali Darwaja (Gate) when monkeys were seen jumping around on the fort walls, dislodging a stone that struck Anil’s head.

The injury was severe, causing massive blood loss from his ears. Members of Anil’s group immediately rushed him down the fort to seek medical assistance.

Anil was taken to the Velhe Rural Hospital, where Dr. Dnyaneshwar Hiras pronounced him dead upon arrival. Dr. Hiras said, "The head injury was fatal, and there was heavy bleeding. Anil had already passed away before reaching the hospital."

Young Aspirant Preparing for Police Recruitment

Anil was residing with his uncle in Dhayari, Pune, as he was preparing for police recruitment exams. He was attending private classes to train for his goal of joining the police force. On Republic Day, he joined his academy mates on a trek to Rajgad Fort, where the unfortunate accident occurred.

The incident was reported to Velhe Police Station late at midnight, and an investigation is underway under the supervision of officer Dnyandeep Dhivar.