The Pune district administration is scrambling to improve tourist safety measures following the monsoon season’s devastating start. Powerful currents at a waterfall near Lonavala’s Bhushi Dam swept away a woman and four children, resulting in their deaths. In response, Pune has issued stricter guidelines for tourist access to various hotspots.
Pune Restricts Tourist Access After 6 PM
District Collector Suhas Divase is spearheading the initiative. Authorities will conduct a comprehensive hazard assessment across popular tourist destinations nestled within the Western Ghats. He has prioritised areas like Maval, Mulshi, Khed, Junnar, Bhor, Velha, and Ambegaon to identify potential risks and ensure tourist safety.
Officials must conduct physical visits to tourist hotspots, including rivers, lakes, dams, waterfalls, forts, and forested areas. After these assessments, they will clearly demarcate prohibited zones and prominently display warning signs to alert visitors. They will completely close off areas deemed too hazardous to implement proper safety measures.
Safety At The Tourist Hotspot
The monsoon season transforms Pune into a tourist hotspot, with large crowds flocking to Bhushi Dam, Pavana Dam, Lonavala, the historic Sinhagad Fort, Malshej Ghat, and Tamhini Ghat. To bolster safety at these popular destinations, Collector Divase has called for the deployment of crucial resources. Divers, rescue boats, lifeguards, and a plentiful supply of life jackets will be readily available at these locations. This joint effort will see revenue departments, forest departments, railways, municipal corporations, and the Public Works Department (PWD) working together.
Divase emphasised that they will collaborate with NGOs, rescue foundations, experienced trekking groups, and local communities. They will utilise their expertise to create a safer environment for tourists.
Also Read: 6 Zika Virus Cases Detected In Pune; 2 Pregnant Women Tested Positive
To minimize risks after dark, officials will restrict tourist access to specific forest areas after 6 pm. These new guidelines aim to prevent similar tragedies from occurring during the monsoon season, prioritising tourist safety above all else.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.