India, July 27 -- Prompt action by the Solapur District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) averted potential tragedies during the Ashadhi Wari, with rescue teams rescuing 35 devotees from the Chandrabhaga river in Pandharpur between July 21 and 26.

The operation was carried out by the DDMA, Haveli Apatti Vyavasthapan Rescue Team, Apatti Vyavasthapan Sangh Pimpri Chinchwad, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Home Guards and expert divers.

Officials said the river swelled following heavy rainfall in the catchment areas and the release of water from the Ujani and Nira dams. With lakhs of devotees arriving for the Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage, the risk of drowning increased significantly. The district administration activated an ...