Why Pune Administration Is Restricting Access to Lonavala's Waterfalls and Forts
Pune district has enforced Section 163 of the BNSS in rural Lonavala until August 31 to ensure visitor safety amid heavy monsoon rains. Access to popular spots like Tiger Point, forts, and waterfalls is restricted to prevent accidents from landslides and flash floods. Authorities urge tourists to follow safety advisories and avoid high-risk water bodies.
In response to the significant surge in tourist footfall during the ongoing monsoon season and increasing concerns over public safety, the Pune district administration has issued prohibitory orders across rural areas of Lonavala. These restrictions, enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) until August 31, are currently in effect to mitigate risks associated with heavy rainfall, including landslides and flash floods.
Prohibitory Measures and Scope
The orders, issued by Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi, cover several popular tourist sites in the Maval taluka and surrounding areas. Why Maharashtra FDA Banned Compulsory Hospital Pharmacy Purchases.
Locations identified as vulnerable due to slippery terrain and dangerous currents include:
- Viewpoints: Tiger Point, Lion's Point, and Shivling Point.
- Forts: Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona, and Tung forts.
- Water Bodies: Pavana Dam, Bhushi Dam, and various natural waterfalls and streams.
Section 163 Imposed in Lonavala
Under the current regulations, authorities have prohibited high-risk activities such as entering or swimming in water bodies, sitting under waterfalls, and performing "reckless" actions like taking selfies or filming videos near cliff edges and dangerous slopes. Furthermore, the administration has banned the consumption of alcohol, the use of loud sound systems, and the entry of four-wheeled and six-wheeled vehicles into designated dam and riverbank zones.
Official Stance on Safety
The administration emphasised that these measures are essential to curbing unsafe behaviour during the peak monsoon period. It is said that the orders are aimed at preventing untoward incidents. District officials have instructed the Superintendent of Police (Pune Rural) and the Tehsildar of Maval to ensure strict compliance. Individuals found violating these regulations face potential legal action under the relevant provisions of the law. Were Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary Secretly Married Before Ketan Agarwal’s Killing?
Advisory for Visitors
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) frequently issuing warnings for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in the ghat sections, the district administration has appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel to these areas. Tourists planning visits to Lonavala are advised to:
- Check with local authorities regarding specific restricted zones before travelling.
- Avoid venturing into riverbanks, waterfalls, or trekking paths during periods of heavy rain.
- Strictly adhere to safety advisories and signage posted by local disaster management teams.
These restrictions are intended to ensure a safe environment for visitors while minimising the burden on rescue and disaster response teams during the monsoon
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 07, 2026 03:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).