Pune: The 3.5-kilometer stretch of Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s Palkhi route from Dehu village to Dehu Road, located within Defense Department territory, remains incomplete, causing significant inconvenience to pilgrims.

Maval MP Shrirang Barne raised the issue in the Lok Sabha, urging swift action to resolve land acquisition challenges and commence the widening work.

This segment of the Palkhi route holds great importance for the Pandharpur pilgrimage but has been fraught with challenges. As the land falls under the Army’s jurisdiction, initiating work has proven difficult.

This route becomes extremely congested during the annual Palkhi procession, requiring bus services and vehicular traffic to be suspended, leading to hardships for local residents and pilgrims alike.

During the Lok Sabha session, MP Barne stressed the criticality of the route and its delayed widening project. He highlighted how the ongoing issues disrupt the sacred Pandharpur pilgrimage and sought clarification on the steps being taken to address the land ownership and the timeline for completion.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, responded by stating that efforts are being made to obtain permissions from the Defense Department. He assured that a meeting with officials from the Defense and State Public Works Department (PWD) will be organized shortly to resolve the land issue and resume the work.

Gadkari emphasized that completing the widening project is crucial for ensuring safety, convenience, and future development.

The Sant Tukaram Palkhi procession remains a deeply revered event, drawing immense participation. Despite the delay, pilgrims maintain a hopeful outlook, awaiting the completion of the widened route.

MP Barne expressed his gratitude to Minister Gadkari in the Lok Sabha for taking the initiative to address the issue.