Pune: Death Toll in Papalwadi Pilgrimage Accident Climbs to 12
Rajgurunagar, 16 August 2025: The number of fatalities in the devastating accident involving women devotees from Papalwadi, Pait (Khed taluka), traveling to Shri Kundeshwar temple has reached 12.
On Friday, Lakshmibai Harischandra Kolekar (49), who had been under treatment at Sainath Hospital in Moshi, succumbed to serious injuries. Just two days earlier, on August 14, Sulabai Balu Chorghe passed away at Aditya Birla Hospital, Pune.
The tragic incident occurred on August 11, when a vehicle carrying a group of women pilgrims met with a severe accident en route to Shri Kundeshwar’s darshan. Ten women died on the spot that day, while more than 30 others were rushed to hospitals with critical injuries.
Since then, despite continued medical efforts, the casualty count has continued to rise, with several patients still battling for survival.
The series of deaths has plunged Papalwadi (Pait) village and nearby areas into deep mourning. Families of the injured remain anxious as many victims are still fighting for their lives.
