Truck Rams Warkaris Near Jejuri, Kills Three Women

A tragic accident occurred on Monday morning near the Belsar Toll Plaza in Pune district, where a truck accompanying the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi procession veered into a group of Warkaris, killing three women and injuring seven others.

The accident happened on the Saswad–Jejuri Road, where the Warkaris were walking as part of the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage. A newly emerged video shows the truck suddenly swerving into the devotees, leaving several pilgrims on the road as fellow Warkaris rush to help the injured.

According to police, the truck belonged to the Dindi of Rangnath Maharaj from Loha in Nanded district and was one of the authorised vehicles accompanying the Palkhi procession. It struck a group of women Warkaris from the Kasbedigraj Dindi of Sangli district around 500 metres ahead of the Belsar Toll Plaza towards Jejuri.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the 70-year-old truck driver, who was reportedly unwell and taking medication for fever and cold, lost control of the vehicle while attempting to overtake another vehicle, causing it to veer into the pilgrims. The driver has been detained, and an investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of the accident.

The Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage is an annual event where thousands of Warkaris walk to the Vitthal temple in Pandharpur, carrying the palkhis of various saints. The pilgrimage is a significant event in Maharashtra, and the accident has sent shockwaves across the state.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia of ₹5 lakh each for the families of the deceased. Deputy Chief Minister and Pune Guardian Minister Sunetra Pawar also visited the injured devotees in hospital and directed officials to ensure they receive the best possible treatment.

The accident has raised concerns about the safety of the Warkaris during the pilgrimage. The authorities have been urged to take necessary measures to prevent such accidents in the future.

The Warkari community is in shock after the accident, and the incident has been widely condemned. The police are investigating the matter, and the exact cause of the accident will be known after the investigation is complete.

In the meantime, the families of the deceased and the injured are being provided with necessary support and assistance. The incident is a reminder of the need for caution and safety during large public events.

The accident has also highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety of devotees during the pilgrimage. The authorities must take necessary measures to prevent such accidents in the future and ensure that the Warkaris can complete their pilgrimage safely.

In conclusion, the accident near Jejuri is a tragic reminder of the risks involved in large public events. The authorities must take necessary measures to prevent such accidents in the future and ensure the safety of devotees. The incident has sent shockwaves across the state, and the Warkari community is in mourning after the loss of lives.