35 devotees rescued from Chandrabhaga river during Ashadhi Wari

Solapur District Disaster Management Authority rescued 35 devotees from Chandrabhaga river in Pandharpur between July 21 and 26.

Rescues peaked on Ashadhi Ekadashi (July 25) with 15 devotees saved, followed by nine on July 24, seven on July 22, three on July 21, and one on July 26.

The river swelled due to heavy rainfall and water release from Ujani and Nira dams, increasing drowning risk during the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage.

Rescue teams included DDMA, Haveli Apatti Vyavasthapan Rescue Team, NDRF, Home Guards, and expert divers, maintaining 24-hour vigil.

Barricades, life jackets, and public announcements were used to prevent devotees from entering deep water; no fatalities occurred.