Pune District Administration Lifts Prohibitory Orders from Tourist Destinations in Maval and Mulshi

Lonavala/Pune, 1st August 2024: The Pune district administration has lifted prohibitory orders from popular tourist destinations in the Maval and Mulshi areas, including Lonavla and Tamhini Ghat, following political pressure and demands from local businesses affected by the ban.

The prohibitory orders, initially issued by the sub-divisional officer until July 27 and later extended indefinitely, have now been withdrawn. However, restrictions remain in place for high-risk spots such as Bhushi Dam and waterfalls within the forest area.

“While we have lifted the prohibitory orders, the earlier directive prohibiting entry to certain risky locations for two months during the monsoon remains effective,” stated Surendra Navale, sub-divisional officer for Maval and Mulshi.

However, he clarified that prohibitory orders for all tourist places could be reissued based on local conditions.

This decision follows protests from local shopowners and members of the transport association in Lonavla, who opposed the district administration’s ban on tourists. Local MLA Sunil Shelke also advocated for lifting the ban with district and state government officials.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the ghat areas of Pune district from August 1 to 3.