Pune’s Palakhi Journey: Pune gears up to host the revered palakhi procession of Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram, arriving this Friday, June 20. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has rolled out a wide-ranging plan to ensure comfort, hygiene, and health for the lakhs of devotees who will line the city streets to welcome the sacred palanquin. (Pune’s Palakhi Journey)
PMC will open all 1,200+ public restrooms normally chargeable completely free throughout the two-day event. The Corporation has also arranged 1,800 mobile toilet units at key locations along the procession route, offering devotees easy access throughout the day. Cleaning teams will disinfect these facilities three times daily, and restrooms at schools along the palakhi’s path will receive special jet-cleaning sessions.
PMC’s Solid Waste Department Deputy Commissioner, Sandeep Kadam, confirmed the team has cleared roadside debris and applied preventive spray in view of the monsoon, keeping the routes neat and safe.
The State Women’s Commission, under its “Arogya Vari” initiative, will distribute 50,000 free sanitary pads at medical help desks and mobile clinics. These facilities, positioned along the palakhi route and at rest points, will also provide first-aid and address any emergencies.
To handle the massive flow of devotees heading to Alandi and Dehu, Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal (PMPML) will deploy 146 additional buses daily between June 16–20. Regular and extra buses will run from key junctions Swar Gate, Manpa, Hadapsar, Pune Station, Nigdi, Bhosari, Hinjewadi, Chinchwad, and Pimpri Road. Bus services will continue until midnight on June 9. A special fleet of 23 buses will shuttle between Dehu and Alandi.
With these proactive arrangements, officials aim to provide a clean, safe, and hassle-free experience for pilgrims allowing them to focus on the spiritual journey instead of logistical concerns.
Pune’s administration invites residents and visitors alike to participate in the grand celebration, confident that everything stands ready for a smooth and inspiring palakhi yatra.
