Pune: 27 Deaths Spur Safety Reforms at Lonavala’s Tourist Spots

Lonavala, 3rd July 2024: As monsoon rains sweep across the country, many people flock to waterfalls, dams, and forests to enjoy the season. However, these outings often result in accidents. On Sunday, June 30th, a tragic incident occurred at Bhushi Dam near Pune, where five members of the same family lost their lives. In response, the Pune district administration has implemented stringent measures to prevent such tragedies.

The new regulations prohibit gatherings of five or more people, entering deep water, and taking selfies or filming reels at these sites. Violators will face penalties under the BNS and Disaster Management Act.

The restrictions affect multiple locations:
Maval Taluka: Bhushi Dam, Bedewadi Falls, Dahuli Falls, Tiger Point, Lion Point, Rajmachi Point, Sahara Bridge, Pavana Dam, Tata Dam, and Ghubad Lake.

Mulshi Taluka: Mulshi Dam, Tamhini Ghat Forest Area, and Milkybar Falls.

Haveli Taluka: Khadakwasla, Warasgaon Dam, and Sinhagad Fort.

-Ambegaon Taluka: Bhimashankar, Dimbhe Dam, and Kondwal Waterfall.

Junnar Taluka: Malshej Ghat, local dams, Shivneri Fort, and Manikdoh.

Bhor and Velha Talukas: Bhatghar Dam and other water bodies around forts.

Khed and Indapur Talukas: Various water bodies and ghat areas.

In addition to these measures, over 60 unauthorized shops near Bhushi Dam were demolished in a joint operation by the Lonavala Municipal Council and Central Railway. On Monday, Collector Diwase instructed the local administration to crack down on unauthorized constructions around tourist spots, emphasizing the importance of safety.

During the monsoons, large numbers of tourists visit areas like Bhushi and Pavana Dam, Lonavala, Sinhagad, Malshej, and Tamhini in the Western Ghats of the Pune district. Unfortunately, many venture into unsafe areas, leading to frequent accidents. Since January 2024, four people have drowned at Pavana Dam alone, highlighting the urgent need for safety measures.

Rescue organizations have recovered 27 bodies from various water bodies in Maval Taluka between March and May this year. The Collector has identified dangerous spots at tourist locations such as dams, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and rocks, and has ordered these areas to be marked as restricted with warning signs to deter tourists from entering.