Pune: Dr. Neelam Gorhe Consoles Families of Navale Bridge Accident Victims
Pune, 17th November 16, 2025: Dr. Neelam Gorhe, Deputy Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and Shiv Sena leader, met on Sunday with the families affected by the tragic accident near Navale Bridge in Pune to offer her condolences. Speaking with members of the Navalkar and Dabhade families, she expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of four members from a single family, describing the incident as profoundly shocking and heartbreaking, particularly because the two families were related.
During the meeting, Dr. Gorhe highlighted a disturbing development. She revealed that in the aftermath of the accident, some individuals had stolen valuables, including Aadhaar cards, mobile phones, jewelry, and important documents of the deceased. She stated that the matter would be urgently brought to the attention of the Police Commissioner for immediate investigation.
Dr. Gorhe also emphasized the need for swift coordination among the central and state governments and local authorities to ensure timely relief, compensation, and rehabilitation for the families. She acknowledged that no financial assistance can fully compensate for the emotional trauma experienced by the bereaved and stressed the importance of preventive measures to avoid similar accidents in the future.
Earlier, Dr. Gorhe had submitted a memorandum to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, urging immediate action. The memorandum suggested urgent modifications at the dangerous slope near Navale Bridge, alternative traffic arrangements, public awareness campaigns for drivers approaching the slope from the Katraj tunnel, speed-control measures, inspection of heavy vehicles, and permanent strategies to prevent recurring accidents at the site. A meeting in Mumbai is planned soon to discuss the implementation of these measures.
Dr. Gorhe confirmed that Deputy CM Eknath Shinde had assured prompt government assistance. Meanwhile, she stated that financial aid had already been provided directly by the Legislative Council and Shiv Sena to support the affected families.
The meeting was attended by Pune Yuva Sena city chief Nilesh Girme, district chief Nilesh Ghare, state chief Somnath Kute, and activists Lokesh Rathod, Hritik Galande, and Chetan Kodre. Local authorities were represented by board officer Archana Dhembre.
Dr. Gorhe personally met and consoled Santosh Navalkar, husband of the late Swati Navalkar, and their children, as well as Komal Dabhade, daughter of the late Dattaji Dabhade. Copies of her memorandum were handed over to the families, reiterating the demand for urgent action from the central government, Maharashtra state government, and local administration.
