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In response to recent tragic incidents, the Pune district administration has rolled out specific safety guidelines for tourists visiting popular monsoon destinations like Lonavala. These measures aim to enhance safety and prevent accidents during the rainy season.
Here's what you need to know:
Restrictions and Safety Measures:
1. Restricted Entry: To ensure tourist safety, entry to popular spots, especially those within forests, is strictly prohibited after 6 pm. This includes well-known locations like Bhushi Dam and the Pavana Dam area. The restrictions will be in place from July 2 to 31. Moreover, gatherings of five or more people are banned, and activities like taking selfies or making reels are strictly prohibited to avoid accidents.
2. Shutdown of Hazardous Areas: Hazardous tourist spots such as Bhushi Dam, Pavana Dam, and other areas in the Western Ghats will be completely closed to visitors during the monsoon season.
3. Water Body Restrictions: Tourists are barred from entering water bodies in Lonavala, Mulshi, Maval, and Pavana during this period to prevent water-related accidents.
Safety Measures Implemented:
The district administration has implemented several safety measures:
- Hazardous areas have been identified and marked to warn tourists.
- Lifeguards and rescue teams are stationed at vulnerable locations.
- Warning boards have been installed to alert visitors about potential dangers.
These steps follow a tragic incident where a woman and four children were swept away at a waterfall near Bhushi Dam recently, highlighting the need for stringent safety measures.
Penalties for Violations:
The Pune Collector, Suhas Divase, has issued notifications under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Disaster Management Act-2005. These orders cover specific regions across Maval, Mulshi, Ambegaon, Khed, Junnar, Bhor, Velha, Indapur, and Haveli tehsils. Violators of safety guidelines may face fines, legal action, or restricted access to tourist spots.
Enforcement Areas:
Prohibitory orders will be strictly enforced at various sites including:
- Bhushi Dam and waterfalls in Maval tehsil.
- Tiger Point, Lion's Point, and Rajmachi Point in Khandala.
- Pavana Dam region and Tata Dam.
- Mulshi Dam and Tamhini Ghat forest area.
- Areas around Sinhgad Fort and Khadakwasla Dam.
In addition, unauthorized structures near tourist spots, including more than 60 makeshift shops near Bhushi Dam, have been demolished during an anti-encroachment drive.
The administration urges all tourists and locals to adhere to these guidelines strictly to ensure their safety and avoid any mishaps during this monsoon season.
These measures underscore the Pune district's commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, prioritizing public safety amidst the natural beauty and allure of these popular destinations.
