Restrictions Imposed at Satara Tourist Spots Till August 19; Includes Waterfalls, Kaas Plateau, Mahabaleshwar Sites, and Dams
Restrictions Imposed at Satara Tourist Spots Till August 19; Includes Waterfalls, Kaas Plateau, Mahabaleshwar Sites, and Dams
Heavy rains prompt safety measures across waterfalls, Kaas Plateau, Mahabaleshwar, and dam sites
With continuous heavy rainfall lashing the Satara district, the district administration has imposed strict restrictions on access to several popular tourist locations until August 19. District Collector has taken this precautionary step to ensure public safety during the monsoon, a season that typically draws large crowds to the region’s natural attractions.
The order, effective from June 20, applies to sites including the Kaas Pushpa Plateau, Thoseghar and Vajrai waterfalls, Lingamala Falls in Mahabaleshwar, Ajinkyatara Fort, and several other waterfalls, lakes, and dam-adjacent areas across Satara, Mahabaleshwar, and Panchgani. Local authorities have reported frequent overcrowding at these locations, raising concerns about visitor safety amidst swollen water bodies and slippery terrain.
The administration has explicitly prohibited entry into fast-flowing water and swimming in rivers and waterfalls. Visitors are also barred from sitting directly under the flow of waterfalls, a common but dangerous activity during the rains. Selfie-taking or filming in risky zones like cliff edges, waterfall bases, and narrow mountain roads has been banned to prevent accidents.
Alcohol consumption near these sites is strictly prohibited, and entering any restricted zone under the influence will lead to legal action. Stopping vehicles in unsafe zones or blocking roadways is also banned. Moreover, incidents of misbehavior, particularly against women, will be met with firm legal consequences.
The order includes a ban on playing loud music, including DJ systems, at public tourist spots, in a move to maintain order and prevent public nuisance during the sensitive monsoon period.
The district collectorate has urged tourists to cooperate with local authorities and avoid non-essential travel to these spots during the rainy season.
