With the Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage just eleven days away, flood-like conditions have emerged in Pandharpur as heavy rains continue to lash the region. In response to the rising rainfall intensity in Pune district, authorities have released large volumes of water from the Ujani and Veer dams into the Chandrabhaga River, significantly increasing water levels and prompting widespread safety concerns.
Currently, 35,000 cusecs of water have been discharged from the Ujani Dam and 15,000 cusecs from the Veer Dam, causing the Chandrabhaga River to flow at full capacity. As a result, many temples along the riverbed have been submerged, and the situation is being closely monitored. Officials have indicated that an additional 50,000 cusecs may be released soon, while 25,000 cusecs are currently flowing through the river.
The timing of the water release has raised alarm, as thousands of Warkaris have already started arriving in Pandharpur to participate in the annual Ashadhi pilgrimage. The swelling river has raised security and safety concerns, especially for devotees who traditionally bathe in the river as part of the religious rituals.
In light of the threat, the local administration has banned river bathing for Warkaris and has increased emergency preparedness across the city. Rescue boats are patrolling the river and continuously broadcasting warnings urging pilgrims to stay away from the water.
Guardian Minister Jayakumar Gore has ordered the distribution of life jackets to all boat operators and instructed the disaster management team to remain on 24/7 alert. Emergency services are issuing constant advisories and appeals through mobile announcements and river patrols.