Maharashtra: Strict Regulations For Firefly Festival 2025: Forest Department To Crack Down On Unruly Tourists
Maharashtra: Strict Regulations For Firefly Festival 2025: Forest Department To Crack Down On Unruly Tourists
Pune/Nashik | May 10, 2025
As the much-anticipated Kajwa (firefly) Festival approaches across Maharashtra’s eco-sensitive zones, the state’s Forest Department has announced a stricter approach this year to regulate irresponsible tourism and protect firefly habitats.
Following directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT), forest officials will hold meetings over the next two days with festival organizers in regions like Bhandardara, Kalsubai, Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Radhanagari to enforce stricter guidelines. The firefly season typically begins in the second week of May, marked by the mesmerizing sight of glowing fireflies illuminating the Sahyadri hills.
The surge in tourist traffic in recent years has transformed these natural gatherings into full-fledged festivals across areas such as Rajmachi, Malshej Ghat, Bhimashankar, and others. While the festivals have created local employment opportunities, they have also witnessed rising indiscipline, putting sensitive ecosystems at risk.
Environmental activists had filed a petition with the NGT citing habitat damage caused by careless tourists. In response, the NGT has directed the Forest Department to submit a detailed report within four weeks on current festival regulations, restrictions, and any punitive action taken against unruly visitors.
Forest officials are expected to finalize revised regulations by next week, which will include time restrictions for firefly viewing. Tourists who fail to comply may face fines, and if needed, action will also be taken against the organizers.
The objective is to allow ecotourism without harming biodiversity. The forest department is planning stricter enforcement this year. Discussions with organizers, local panchayats, and elected representatives will take place soon.
Common Tourist Violations Identified:
- Shining bright torchlights directly at trees
- Using camera flashes
- Driving vehicles deep into forest areas at night
- Consuming alcohol and littering plastic waste
- Hosting cultural programs in protected zones
- Capturing and taking fireflies home in jars
The Forest Department had initiated basic festival regulations last year in areas like Ahilyanagar, Nashik, but this year, broader and more effective implementation is being planned in view of the NGT’s directions.
Forest officials urge tourists and organizers to prioritize nature conservation while enjoying the firefly spectacle—a unique and fragile phenomenon of the Western Ghats.
