Pune: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Assures Joint Meeting to Resolve Palkhi Route Dispute

Dehu, 13th December 2024: The widening of the 3.5-kilometre-long Palkhi Route of Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj, from the pilgrimage site Dehu Gaon to Dehu Road, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defence, has been stalled. This has caused significant inconvenience to the Warkaris, who face challenges while walking along the route. To address this issue, Maval MP Shrirang Barne raised a starred question in the Lok Sabha, demanding that the land be handed over to the Department of Defence and work on the stalled road be resumed.

In response, Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari assured that a joint meeting would soon be held with the Defence Department and the state Public Works Department to resolve the matter. The widening of this section is crucial as it poses challenges due to the land being under the possession of the army. This initial stretch from Dehu Gaon to Dehu Road becomes particularly challenging during the Pandharpur Wari, as bus services and traffic on this route must be suspended, causing hardship for residents.

The Warkaris have long been demanding the widening of this stretch. MP Barne emphasized in the Lok Sabha that the land falls under the boundaries of the Defence Department, while possession lies with the Maharashtra Government’s Public Works Department (PWD). The delay in widening the road has caused inconvenience to the Warkaris, affecting the smooth conduct of the Pandharpur Wari and overall traffic and safety in the area. Barne urged immediate action to resolve the matter, highlighting the significance of completing this road for future development and the comfort of pilgrims.

Minister Gadkari assured that efforts are ongoing to obtain the Defence Department’s approval for the road widening. He confirmed that discussions would be held with both the Defence and Public Works Departments to expedite the project. The stalled road work will be completed after clearing all necessary permissions.

The Palkhi Marg, which extends from Dehu to Pandharpur, holds immense cultural and spiritual importance. The resolution of this issue will bring relief to the Warkaris and ensure smoother pilgrimages in the future. MP Barne expressed his gratitude to Nitin Gadkari in the Lok Sabha for taking steps to address the problem and complete the roadwork.