Shivneri: A stampede-like situation unfolded at Shivneri Fort in Junnar, Pune district, during the early hours of Thursday as large crowds gathered to mark Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti, injuring numerous devotees, according to reports.
The incident occurred shortly after midnight when thousands of people convened at the historic fort, the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj for the annual celebrations of the Maratha ruler’s birth anniversary. The festival draws large numbers of pilgrims statewide, with many carrying the traditional Shiv Jyot and chanting slogans praising the 17th-century king.
महाराष्ट्र | पुणे के शिवनेरी किले पर कल रात भगदड़ में कई श्रद्धालु चोटिल हुए हैं। छत्रपति शिवाजी महाराज जयंती पर काफी भीड़ जुटी थी। ये लोग अंदर जा रहे थे। रास्ता संकरा होने से एक युवक सीढ़ियों से फिसला, फिर उनके ऊपर लोग गिरते चले गए। pic.twitter.com/MO9g3Adc7z
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Authorities and eyewitnesses said the turnout far exceeded the fort’s capacity, leading to overcrowded conditions along several narrow paths, particularly near the Hatti Darwaza, Ganesh Darwaza, and the area below the Ambarkhana. With heavy two-way foot traffic devotees both ascending and descending congestion escalated rapidly.
In the ensuing chaos, people were pushed and jostled, causing some to fall and sustain injuries. Estimates of those hurt vary, with some reports citing 15 to 20 people affected, though no serious or life-threatening injuries have been confirmed. Victims, including women and children, were treated for minor wounds and taken to medical facilities in Junnar.
The fort’s tight pathways, designed centuries ago, are ill-suited for massive gatherings, and the heavy footfall at key bottlenecks contributed to the hazardous conditions. Officials say they are still gathering details and have not yet issued an official statement on crowd control measures or future safety plans.