Section 163 Imposed In Lonavala Amid Heavy Rain; What This Means For Travellers

Are you planning to visit Lonavala this season? If yes, then this is for you. You might not be able to visit some of the most famous tourist spots in Lonavala as the authorities have now imposed Section 163 till July 31 in view of heavy rainfall in the hill station region. Here’s more on this and what it means for travellers.

Section 163 Imposed In Lonavala Till July 31

Lonavala, located just 85 km from Pune and 65 km from Mumbai, is a popular hill station in the Western Ghats. The place is known for being an iconic weekend getaway for people from these two cities. But if you are planning to visit it before July 31, you may have to change your plans. According to Pune Mirror, the Pune district administration has imposed restrictions under Section 163 within the jurisdiction of the Lonavala Police Station.

The decision has been taken in view of heavy rainfall and the increasing risk of accidents in the region. The order came into effect on July 6 and will remain in force until 6 am on July 31. But here’s the most important part. This order does not mean that you cannot visit Lonavala. You just won’t be allowed to access dangerous locations during this period.

Also Read: Mumbai-Pune Expressway: Landslide Near Tunnel 2 Shuts Missing Link; Commuters Rerouted Via Lonavala

Tourists Can’t Visit Waterfalls, Cliffs & Other Risky Spots

According to Pune Mirror, under the order, tourists will not be allowed to visit waterfalls, overflowing streams, deep valleys, cliff edges and other identified danger zones. Tourist sites such as Lohagad Fort, Tiger Point and Lion’s Point are among the locations now under restrictions. The authorities have also prohibited visitors from taking selfies or creating social media content such as reels at these dangerous locations.

Over the past few days, heavy rainfall across Pune district and Mumbai has led to severe waterlogging and overflowing water bodies, increasing the risk of landslides and flash floods in the Lonavala-Maval region. Tourists have been asked to cooperate with the restrictions and follow all rules. Police personnel will be deployed at vulnerable locations to ensure that tourists do not enter restricted areas. Action may be taken against those violating the restrictions.

Also Read: Can You See Mumbai Skyline From Lonavala’s Shivling Point? Viral Video Proves You Can Only If.. 

So, if you are planning to visit Lonavala, make sure to keep these new restrictions in mind.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Parthi Photography

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