In preparation for the annual Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi procession, railway authorities have extended the halt of trains at Bopodi railway station by 25 minutes. The decision aims to manage the expected rush of Warkaris (devotees) who will gather in large numbers as the palanquin passes through Pune on its way to Pandharpur.
The palanquin procession, also known as the Palkhi Sohala, is a deeply rooted spiritual journey that starts from Dehu and concludes in Pandharpur, attracting lakhs of pilgrims who walk hundreds of kilometers. The additional halt time at Bopodi has been introduced to ease crowd movement and ensure safety during this significant religious event.
Officials from Central Railway’s Pune Division confirmed that the extended halt is part of a broader strategy to support logistical needs during the procession. The measure is expected to reduce congestion and help devotees disembark and regroup comfortably at one of the key suburban stations in the city.
“The stop at Bopodi has been lengthened to accommodate the high number of participants expected during the Palkhi. All necessary support systems have been put in place to handle the increased footfall,” said a railway official involved in the event coordination.
To support the extended halt, additional security personnel, medical teams, water distribution points, and information counters have been deployed at the station. Coordination efforts include the Pune Municipal Corporation, police forces, and local volunteer groups to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
Meanwhile, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) has introduced extra buses around Bopodi, Dehu, and other prominent points along the route. Traffic police have also shared advisories for commuters to avoid congestion near key procession routes, particularly on the Mumbai–Pune highway.
Devotees and local residents have welcomed the decision, expressing gratitude for the proactive steps taken to improve travel and safety conditions. The Palkhi, revered as a symbol of devotion and unity, brings together followers from across Maharashtra and beyond, making crowd management a critical aspect of its success.
This year’s extension of the Bopodi halt underscores the growing scale and importance of the event, and reflects the administration’s commitment to balancing spiritual tradition with modern logistical needs.
