A truck collided with a group of women pilgrims on the Saswad‑Jejuri Road in Pune, killing three and critically injuring four during the Ashadhi Wari procession. The driver, a 70‑year‑old, was reportedly unwell, prompting a state‑wide investigation and financial aid for the victims' families.
Key Takeaways
- Truck collision during Ashadhi Wari kills 3 women pilgrims
- 4 other pilgrims sustain serious injuries
- Driver, aged 70, was unwell and may have contributed to the crash
On the Saswad‑Jejuri Road in Pune’s Purandar taluka, a truck accompanying the Ashadhi Wari procession struck a group of seven women pilgrims at around 8:30 a.m. on Monday. Among the dead were Nanda Pawar, 60, of Kavalapur; Madhavi Rajaram Salgare, 55, of Malgaon; and Rajshri Shankar Bhosale, 55, of Kasbe Digraj. Four other women were rushed to hospitals with critical injuries.
Background: Ashadhi Wari and Its Significance
The Ashadhi Wari is the most important pilgrimage of the Warkari sect, drawing hundreds of thousands of devotees who walk from Pandharpur to Jejuri each year, accompanied by a Palkhi (palanquin). The procession is meticulously organized, with a central divider separating the vehicle lane from the pilgrim lane. This year, traffic management plans earmarked the right carriageway for support vehicles and the left for walkers.
Cause of the Accident and Driver’s Condition
Pune Rural Police reports indicate that the driver, a 70‑year‑old senior citizen, was under medication for fever and a cold. While attempting to overtake another vehicle, he abruptly swerved left, colliding with the women’s group. Preliminary inquiries point to the driver’s compromised health as a possible factor in his delayed reaction.
Government Response and Relief Measures
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the incident as “extremely heartbreaking” and announced a compensation of INR 5 lakh for each victim’s family. Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar visited the injured at Jejuri hospital, confirming that treatment is being provided free of cost under the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana.
Investigation and Future Safeguards
Senior police officials have taken charge of the site, overseeing rescue, medical aid, traffic control, and preservation of evidence. A comprehensive probe will examine the driver’s medical records, his conduct, and any procedural lapses in the procession’s traffic plan. Should negligence be proven, legal action will follow.
The tragedy underscores the need for stricter health screening of drivers attached to large pilgrimages and a reevaluation of lane usage policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
