Pune: Alandi Municipal Council and Alandi Devasthan have jointly sought Rs 65 crore from the state govt for development works and improved facilities for pilgrims, with the annual Kartiki Wari next month expected to bring the town’s infrastructure under further pressure.The civic body has sought funds for an administrative building, footpath improvements, development of the temple precinct, Indrayani riverfront safety measures and beautification.The demand has once again brought into focus the widening gap between Alandi’s religious significance and the basic amenities available to devotees and local residents. The proposal was submitted to minister of state for urban development Madhuri Misal during her recent visit to the town.Alandi, which houses the Sanjeevan Samadhi of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, is among Maharashtra’s prominent pilgrimage destinations. Thousands of devotees visit the town regularly, while their numbers increase considerably during Ashadhi and Kartiki Wari.However, residents said infrastructure development has failed to keep pace with the growing pilgrim footfall, resulting in inconvenience for devotees and locals alike. “Every year, the authorities make temporary arrangements before major religious events. However, the basic problems remain unchanged. Roads are congested, pedestrian movement is difficult and sanitation facilities are inadequate during the peak pilgrimage period. Alandi needs permanent infrastructure rather than temporary measures,” Somnath Gaikwad, a resident, said.Another resident raised concerns about the condition of roads and pedestrian safety, particularly during major religious gatherings. “During the Wari, devotees occupy almost every available space around the temple and on approach roads. Elderly pilgrims and women face considerable difficulties because of inadequate pedestrian facilities. The authorities should prioritise footpaths, public toilets, drinking water and traffic management before spending on beautification,” said Swapnil Kamble, another resident.According to the proposal, the municipal council has sought Rs 40 crore for constructing a new administrative building and Rs 10 crore for improving footpaths across wards 1 to 10. Another Rs 5 crore has been sought for the development of the temple precinct, while an equal amount has been proposed as a pilgrimage grant. The civic body has also demanded Rs 2 crore for constructing protective walls and railings along Indrayani river ghats to improve pilgrim safety.Madhav Khandekar, the chief officer of the council, said, “We put forth these demands after studying the ground situation in the town. We need multipronged strategy along with required infrastructure to improve the conditions in the town.”The proposal includes Rs 3.2 crore for beautification, including decorative streetlights, improvements to major roads, attractive arches, sculptures of prominent personalities associated with the Warkari tradition and landscaping along road dividers.Residents said safety along Indrayani river should receive particular attention, considering the large number of devotees who visit the ghats for religious rituals.“The riverfront attracts devotees throughout the year, but safety arrangements need improvement. Protective railings, proper lighting, clean access routes and adequate personnel during major gatherings are essential to prevent accidents,” said activist Arjun Medankar.Residents also questioned whether the proposed expenditure adequately addresses the town’s immediate civic requirements.“Alandi is known across Maharashtra because of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. The town deserves infrastructure that reflects its religious importance. However, development should first improve the everyday lives of residents and ensure that pilgrims receive basic facilities. Beautification alone will not solve the problems,” said a regular visitor, Sudam Kolekar.The proposal has highlighted the need for long-term infrastructure planning in Alandi, where the annual influx of devotees places additional pressure on civic services.Residents said the state govt should not only approve funds but also ensure that development works are completed within stipulated deadlines and maintained throughout the year.
