After the tragic incident at Bhushi dam that claimed five lives, including four children, Lonavla Municipal Council (LMC) and Pune district administration have initiated stringent measures to enhance safety at one of the region’s popular tourist destinations.The authorities took swift action on Tuesday, demolishing decades-old kiosks and stalls located on railway land near Bhushi dam. These structures, known for attracting large crowds over the years, were identified as impediments to rescue operations and administrative management due to prolonged visitor stays throughout the day.
Navale, a senior official from the Maval and Mulshi sub-divisional office, confirmed the removal of 35 stalls and emphasized the railway authorities’ responsibility to prevent unauthorized encroachments on their land in the future.The recent tragedy involved a family that ventured into the west weir of Bhushi dam, where they were swept away over 150 metres, resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Deputy Superintendent of Police (SP) of the Rural Police highlighted the necessity of restricting access beyond the west weir to prevent similar incidents.Under the new restrictions, tourists are prohibited from crossing the west weir area of Bhushi dam. Additionally, parking on Sahara bridge and entry to the upper portions of three adjacent small waterfalls have been banned to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.
Officials also addressed traffic congestion issues caused by multiple parking lots near the Bhushi dam, particularly affecting commuters heading to the Lonavla ghat section. The enforcement of these measures aims to streamline crowd control efforts, making it more manageable for law enforcement personnel.According to a senior police officer the challenges in managing the bustling tourist spot and expressed optimism that the recent enforcement drive would alleviate these concerns significantly.The proactive steps taken by Lonavla authorities underscore their commitment to enhancing visitor safety and preventing future tragedies at Bhushi dam, reflecting a comprehensive approach to managing tourism and public safety in the region.This strategic intervention not only aims to regulate tourist activities but also seeks to foster a safer environment for all visitors to one of Maharashtra’s most frequented tourist spots.
