Reckless Selfies, Stunts, and Booze: Junnar’s Scenic Spots Turn Dangerous and Disorderly
Reckless Selfies, Stunts, and Booze: Junnar’s Scenic Spots Turn Dangerous and Disorderly
A worrying trend has emerged in Junnar taluka over the past week: tourist hotspots once known for their scenic beauty are now grappling with swelling crowds, chaos, and reckless behavior driven largely by social media obsession.
Heavy rainfall has turned waterfalls and hill streams in full flow, drawing throngs of visitors eager for dramatic photos and videos. But alongside the natural spectacle, authorities and locals are witnessing alarming scenes: tourists climbing over safety railings, standing dangerously close to cliff edges, and venturing onto slippery rocks — all to capture the perfect selfie or reel. Warning signs and barriers are routinely ignored, with many seemingly willing to risk serious injury for online attention.
Sites like Ranthafall and Nhanifall are among the worst affected. Despite visible safety measures, many visitors bypass rules, balance precariously on rocks near powerful currents, or perform risky stunts, often recording themselves throughout. What should be moments of quiet appreciation have turned into adrenaline-fueled, phone-centric spectacles.
Adding to the trouble is widespread alcohol consumption at these locations. Groups — including corporate teams and younger crowds on weekend getaways — have been seen drinking in parked cars, playing loud music, and causing noisy disturbances. Locals report instances of tourists making obscene gestures, whistling, and even confronting anyone who dares question their behavior. The atmosphere at these once-serene spots is increasingly rowdy, frustrating residents and responsible tourists alike.
Social media’s influence is pushing some to dangerous extremes. In areas like Bhandardara, bikers have been seen riding triple-seat, standing on moving bikes, and performing wheelies — all while filming. Young women too have joined in these risky stunts, highlighting how the drive for viral fame is blurring lines between fun and recklessness.
The broader region, dotted with stunning but inherently risky spots like Malshej Ghat, Naneghat, Amboli Ghat, Darya Ghat, Munjaba Hill, Harishchandragad, Lagacha Ghat, Phophsandi, Kalsubai, Sandan Valley, and Bhandardara, has been under watch. Authorities, including police units at Murbad and Otur, have installed warning signs and ramped up monitoring — especially at high-risk points like Malshej Ghat. Still, many tourists disregard all caution.
For locals, patience is running thin. The noise, trash, and outright disregard for safety and local norms have disrupted daily life and raised serious concerns. There’s now a growing call for stricter action: heavier fines, a stronger police presence, and a crackdown on reckless stunts and alcohol-fueled behavior — to protect both lives and the fragile beauty of Junnar’s natural treasures.
