Crowd Mishap at Historic Shivneri Fort Injures Three During Shivaji Jayanti Celebrations
In a distressing incident early on Thursday, three individuals sustained injuries following a crowd-related mishap at the historic Shivneri Fort in Pune district. The event occurred as thousands of devotees and admirers thronged the fort to commemorate the birth anniversary of the revered Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Details of the Early Morning Incident
The unfortunate incident unfolded around 3:30 AM near the Meena Darwaja area of Shivneri Fort, located in Junnar tehsil. According to police officials, a group carrying a ceremonial torch was descending from the fort when the mishap took place amidst heavy crowding.
Superintendent of Police for Pune Rural, Sandip Singh Gill, provided crucial details: "A group was coming down the fort carrying a torch at a fast pace amid heavy crowding. Our police team present there advised them to slow down. Meanwhile, someone from the upper side pushed a person, following which four to five people from the group fell. Three persons sustained leg injuries."
Police Response and Crowd Management
Police personnel stationed at the site immediately rushed to assist the injured individuals and worked diligently to manage the crowd, preventing further chaos and potential escalation of the situation.
The official further stated, "We have deployed additional police force and the movement of people is now taking place smoothly." This swift action helped restore order and ensure the safety of the thousands gathered at the historic site.
Significance of Shivneri Fort and Shivaji Jayanti
Shivneri Fort holds immense historical significance as the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. He was born on February 19, 1630, at this very fort in what is now Pune district. The annual celebration attracts massive crowds who come to pay their respects and participate in various ceremonial activities.
Later in the day, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was scheduled to visit the fort to offer tributes to Shivaji Maharaj, highlighting the importance of the occasion in the state's cultural and political calendar.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges in managing large gatherings at historical sites during significant cultural events, even as authorities work to ensure public safety and smooth proceedings.
