Pune: In preparation for the upcoming Ashadi Wari, one of India’s most significant religious pilgrimages, the Public Health Department (PHD) has announced an extensive healthcare support plan for Warkaris journeying from Dehu-Alandi in Pune to Pandharpur. With over 15 lakh devotees expected to participate, the department has geared up with medical facilities and safety initiatives along the route.
To ensure medical aid is always within reach, the PHD will establish ‘Aapla Davakhana’ (Our Clinic) every 5 kilometers along the Wari path. These clinics will offer primary health services to pilgrims. Additionally, intensive care and trauma facilities will be set up at critical points along the route.
A total of 45 ICU units will be created at key halting areas such as Saswad, Jejuri, and Lonand. This includes 25 ICU centers directly on the route and 20 trauma care units in Pandharpur, each with 10 beds. The ICUs will operate out of rural and sub-district hospitals.
Emergency response services will be robust, with 331 ambulances—covering both 102 and 108 services—available round the clock. Private hospitals along the route have been instructed to reserve 10% of their beds for pilgrims in case of emergencies.
To further strengthen on-ground support, 290 trained health volunteers, known as ‘Arogyaduts,’ will accompany the Warkaris, one per Dindi (group). A team of 15 gynecologists will be available along the path to cater to the health needs of female devotees. Moreover, 37 Hirkani centers will be set up, and 3,500 medical kits will be distributed to heads of Palakhis.
Sanitation and disease control are also key focuses. All water sources along the pilgrimage path will be inspected and disinfected. Measures to control vector-borne diseases, such as fogging operations, will be undertaken. Additionally, staff at eateries, restaurants, and roadside dhabas will undergo mandatory health screenings.
The initiative will be supported by a 1,303-member medical team, including 138 specialist doctors, 149 MBBS physicians, 228 Ayurvedic practitioners, 437 nurses and health workers, along with technicians and sanitation staff. Also involved are 175 ASHA workers and 202 mobile clinics under the ‘Aapla Davakhana’ initiative.
To promote health awareness among Warkaris, the department will distribute informative materials via T-shirts, caps, shawls, and transport vehicles. Folk artists and themed vehicles will deliver messages about hygiene and disease prevention. Health Dindis in Saswad and Satara will serve as mobile awareness campaigns, supported by banners, posters, and informational boards placed at clinics. Audio-visual content will be used on social media and public platforms to educate participants on topics like monsoon health and tobacco-related illnesses.
With these extensive preparations, the Public Health Department aims to ensure a safe and healthy journey for all participants in this iconic spiritual event.
