Pune Police Gears Up for Palkhi Processions 2025; 6,500 Officers Deployed, AI-Based Crowd Estimation and Real-Time Tracking Introduced

Pune, 18th June 2025 – Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar and Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Pankaj Deshmukh held a press conference today to outline the city’s preparedness for the upcoming Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar Palkhi processions set to pass through Pune.

CP Amitesh Kumar said that detailed planning has been done to ensure smooth movement of the Palkhis and to prevent any untoward incidents. “All concerned stakeholders have been consulted, and we’ve jointly inspected the entire route with Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol. Necessary arrangements, including traffic diversions and a dedicated awareness video, have been implemented,” he said.

Special teams such as Quick Response Team (QRT), Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), and other security units have been deployed. The police have also taken into account ongoing infrastructural works that may impact traffic, particularly in Vishrantwadi, and have accordingly planned diversions and control measures in those areas.

Arrangements have been made in key gathering spots like Gadital and overnight halting points. Dive Ghat road-widening work is in progress, and precautions have been taken to prevent landslides in mountainous areas. NDRF and other rescue teams will be on standby.

To manage the large crowds effectively, Pune Police will use artificial intelligence and other technologies to estimate the number of Warkaris (devotees) entering the city. A real-time Palkhi tracking web link has also been circulated to help devotees know the location of the procession and avoid chaos.

A total of 6,500 police personnel have been deployed for the operation, with full coordination among Pune Police and other administrative bodies. Special attention is being given to the regulation of heavy vehicles to prevent accidents. CCTV surveillance and new-age tech solutions will be utilized extensively throughout the procession route.

Crime Branch teams will be deployed to prevent crimes such as pickpocketing and chain snatching. Women’s safety will also be a priority. Their presence will help deter general criminal activities.

Commissioner Kumar assured that all measures have been taken to ensure the processions remain peaceful, safe, and well-organized.