The picturesque trekking route leading to Sinhagad fort from Atkarwadi village has been closed temporarily following a rockfall incident early Sunday morning. Authorities took swift action after boulders cascaded onto the path, triggered by heavy overnight rainfall that weakened the soil along the trail.
Officials from the forest department confirmed the incident, highlighting that no injuries were reported due to the timely sealing of the affected area. The closure aims to prevent any potential hazards to trekkers until the area is deemed safe for use again. Assistant Conservator of Forests for Pune division stated, “The safety of visitors is paramount. Upon receiving reports of the rockfall, our team immediately cordoned off the route. We will initiate clearance operations once weather conditions stabilize. Currently, the route poses significant risks and must be avoided.” The Atkarwadi route is favored by approximately 60% of daily visitors to Sinhagad fort due to its accessibility and lack of challenging sections, making it popular among families and novice trekkers. Villagers and forest committee members emphasize that no untoward incidents have occurred along this route previously. While the closure impacts one of the three major trekking routes to the fort, the other two remain open and unaffected. Additionally, the ghat road leading to Sinhagad fort has been declared safe for use, ensuring continued access for tourists.
In response to district directives aimed at enhancing safety during the monsoon season, the forest division has implemented precautionary measures. These include deploying personnel at critical points, installing informative signboards, and advising visitors to adhere to safety guidelines such as avoiding risky areas and refraining from large group activities. Officials noted a decrease in footfall at Sinhagad fort this year compared to previous years, citing safety precautions and reduced tourist numbers amidst ongoing safety checks and inclement weather conditions. As authorities continue to monitor and secure tourist spots like Sinhagad fort, ensuring visitor safety remains a top priority, reinforcing the region’s commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all tourists and trekkers alike.
