Matheran Is Shut, Businesses On Strike. Here’s What You Need To Know Before Making Any Plans!

Matheran, a popular Maharashtra hill resort, has been closed down indefinitely since March 18 due to agitations by local residents and merchants against increasing tourist scams. Matheran Paryatan Vachav Sangharsh Samiti (MPVSS), a group for local residents and traders, is seeking stern action against malpractices like overcharging of tourists by horse operators and touts at Dasturi, the entry point. The authorities, despite numerous complaints, have remained unable to stem these malpractices, and hence locals were forced to act on their own.

Matheran Protest: Residents Demand Action Against Tourists Scam

Locals and businesspeople in Matheran have expressed outrage at the lack of action on the part of the authorities. Complaints of fraudulent pricing and harassment by some horse operators have resulted in mounting discontent.

Locals gave a formal protest letter to the revenue department, municipal council, forest department, and police on February 27. But as no action was being taken, MPVSS decided to go for an indefinite strike, demanding total closure of the hill station.

The protest has been supported by hoteliers, e-rickshaw unions, traders, and social organisations.  Former municipal council president and MPVSS member Manoj Khedkar said that the strike will go on until all scams targeting tourists are stopped.

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Tourists Were Unaware Of The Shutdown

As reported by News18, tourists who arrived in Matheran were unaware of the sudden shutdown, with all businesses and shops closed. Most tourists had to go back home disappointed. With summer holidays approaching, Matheran is a popular weekend getaway, but the strike is making visits difficult.

Matheran was always a prized weekend destination for tourists and weekenders, an escape from the din of urban life. The recent shutdown, however, raises more complicated issues.

While the protests are inconvenient for a temporary period, they are also a reminder that ethical tourism practices must be upheld. Hopefully, a fair solution will be met soon so that Matheran will once again receive tourists with the charm and hospitality for which it is well known.

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Until then, Matheran will remain shut.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons 

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