EXCLUSIVE VIDEO: Safety, Sanitation Concerns Surface Ahead Of Shravan Rush At Bhimashankar Temple

Pune: With the holy month of Shravan drawing near, thousands of devotees from across the country are expected to visit the revered Bhimashankar Temple in Pune district. However, several civic issues around the temple premises have emerged, raising concerns over the safety and convenience of pilgrims.

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FPJ visit

During a visit to the temple, The Free Press Journal team found several civic shortcomings. Many streetlights on the stretch from the check post to the temple are either damaged or non-functional, leaving several sections poorly illuminated. The problem is compounded by the dense fog that frequently engulfs the hill shrine, significantly reducing visibility, particularly during the early morning and evening hours when devotees are on foot.

Adding to the concern, several electric poles along the route have their switch boxes left open, exposing live electrical wiring. Pilgrims and local residents fear these exposed cables could lead to accidents, especially during the ongoing monsoon when the area remains wet and slippery.

Civic issues

Another issue hurting the sentiments of devotees is the condition of decorative electric poles designed in the shape of the sacred 'Om' and 'Trishul'. Several of these old structures were found lying on the ground in a damaged condition instead of being repaired or removed respectfully.

The condition of public amenities also leaves much to be desired. The public toilet near the temple was found to be operational but without a regular water supply. The premises were unclean, while plastic bottles and other litter were scattered around the area, creating an unpleasant environment for visitors.

Waste management around the pilgrimage site also appears inadequate. Garbage collected from the area was found packed in sacks and dumped beside the roadside at several locations. In some places, waste was seen lying in the open, raising hygiene concerns and affecting the overall appearance of one of Maharashtra's most important pilgrimage destinations.

With lakhs of devotees expected to visit the shrine during Shravan, pilgrims say these issues require immediate attention from the local administration to ensure a safe and clean pilgrimage experience.

Ramesh Sharma, a devotee from Indore, said, "We have come here with our family for darshan, but many parts of the road are dark because the streetlights are not working. In a place covered with fog, proper lighting is essential for everyone's safety."

Priya Patil, who travelled from Nashik, said, "The open electrical switch boxes are dangerous. There are children, elderly people and thousands of pilgrims walking on this route. The authorities should repair them immediately. It is a clear invitation for an accident."

Venkatesh Rao, a devotee from Hyderabad, said, "It is painful to see damaged Om- and Trishul-shaped poles lying on the ground. These symbols hold religious significance and should be treated with respect. Although the authorities have replaced them, leaving the old poles on the ground and near drains is unacceptable. They should be placed appropriately."

Sunita Jadhav, a visitor from Pune, said, "The temple is one of the most sacred Jyotirlingas, but the public toilet had no water and was dirty. Garbage lying beside the road also creates a poor impression. Cleanliness should be given priority during Shravan."

With the footfall expected to rise during the auspicious month, devotees have urged the administration to restore streetlights, secure exposed electrical installations, improve sanitation facilities and strengthen waste management to ensure the spiritual journey remains safe, clean and dignified for all visitors.