In a significant move, the Mumbai Traffic Police announced that all vehicles travelling to Pandharpur for the upcoming Ashadhi Ekadashi festival would be exempted from road tax. This decision, made under the directives of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, aims to facilitate the smooth movement of devotees during this religious event. To aid in the identification of eligible vehicles, drivers are urged to affix special stickers containing relevant information. These stickers can be obtained from local police stations, traffic police checkpoints, and Regional Transport Office (R.T.O) offices starting from June 13.
Moreover, the state government has introduced the ‘Vitthal Rukmini Warkari Bima Chhatra’ scheme, which offers insurance coverage to the Warkaris participating in the Ashadhi wari procession. This initiative is designed to provide financial security and well-being to the devotees throughout the 30-day event. The government will bear the insurance costs, ensuring the participants are protected in case of untoward incidents.
Devotees planning to make the journey to Pandharpur are advised to coordinate with the Transport Department, Traffic Police, and other relevant authorities to receive necessary guidance and support. Ashadhi Ekadashi, a significant occasion for Vaishnavites who worship Lord Vishnu, will be observed on June 29, 2023. With the road tax exemption and the introduction of the insurance scheme, the government aims to facilitate a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage experience for all travellers heading to Pandharpur.