19 July,2026 10:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Eknath Shinde said special attention has been given to healthcare services during the pilgrimage. Pic/Shinde`s office
The Maharashtra government has said that all arrangements are in place to ensure a safe, healthy and well-managed Ashadhi Wari for lakhs of devotees visiting Pandharpur, an official statement, issued by Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde's office, said.
It stated that Shinde reviewed the preparations for the annual pilgrimage ahead of Ashadhi Ekadashi and said all government departments have been instructed to work together to provide better facilities for the Warkaris.
Speaking after the review meeting in Pandharpur, Shinde said the Wari is not only a religious tradition but also a major event connected with the faith of millions of devotees.
"Every Warkari should return saying that this year's arrangements were excellent," he said.
Shinde said the state government has approved Rs 671 crore for various development projects in Pandharpur.
The funds will be used for improving roads, infrastructure facilities, darshan halls and other development works in phases.
He added that there would be no shortage of funds for arrangements related to the pilgrimage and directed district officials to submit any additional requirements immediately.
The Deputy Chief Minister said special attention has been given to healthcare services during the pilgrimage.
Additional ambulances, medical facilities, seating arrangements and emergency services have been planned for devotees.
For the first time, an air ambulance facility will also be available during the Wari.
Instructions have also been issued to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) regarding the air ambulance service.
Authorities have increased security arrangements with the support of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigade, police and other agencies.
The administration is focusing on the CCTV surveillance, traffic management, electricity supply, cleanliness arrangements, emergency response systems and crowd control measures.
Municipal corporations from Pimpri-Chinchwad, Thane, Navi Mumbai and Panvel will also provide manpower and equipment support during the pilgrimage.
Shinde said there would be no special VIP treatment at Pandharpur and emphasised that every devotee should get convenient darshan.
"Everyone is equal in Pandharpur. I also took darshan as a Warkari," he said.
He instructed officials to continue working round the clock to ensure smooth arrangements for the Ashadhi Ekadashi celebrations.
