Palkhi 2026: CM Devendra Fadnavis Urges Warkaris to Avoid Dehu and Alandi Amid Heavy Rain, Reach Pune Directly
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 6th July 2026: In view of the ongoing heavy rainfall and flood situation across Maharashtra, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has appealed to Warkaris participating in the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi processions to prioritise their safety and avoid gathering at Dehu and Alandi. Instead, he urged devotees to proceed directly to Pune.
Addressing the prevailing weather conditions, the Chief Minister said the flood situation remains serious and is being closely monitored by the administration. He noted that all four bridges over the Indrayani River have been submerged due to rising water levels, severely affecting transportation and movement in the Dehu and Alandi areas.
Fadnavis appealed to Warkaris to cooperate with the administration to prevent any untoward incidents during the annual pilgrimage.
The Palkhi processions are scheduled to arrive in Pune on July 9. Considering the current situation, the Chief Minister advised devotees to avoid travelling to Dehu and Alandi, stating that doing so could pose significant safety risks.
“The safety of every Warkari is our highest priority. Instead of assembling in large numbers at Dehu and Alandi, devotees should come directly to Pune and strictly follow the instructions issued by the administration,” he said.
The Chief Minister also assured that the state government has made comprehensive arrangements for the pilgrimage despite the adverse weather conditions. Adequate facilities, including shelters, food, medical services and other essential amenities, have been planned for the Warkaris.
He said the government has erected a large number of German hangars to provide safe shelter to devotees and ensure that they do not face inconvenience during the pilgrimage.
Fadnavis added that the state government, district administration, police, disaster management authorities and all concerned departments are working in close coordination to manage the situation. He also urged Warkaris not to believe rumours and to rely only on official advisories issued by the administration as heavy rainfall continues across the state.
