PUNE: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for ghat areas in Pune and Raigad districts for the next three days. Heavy rainfall warnings were issued in several parts of Maharashtra, leading to authorities issuing prohibitory orders and closure of several tourist spots.
To ensure the safety of tourists, the Pune district authorities have enforced prohibitory orders at various popular picnic spots in the district, including Bhushi Dam and other places around Lonavla.
These measures come following the recent tragedy in which a family of five was swept away by water from the Bhusi Dam on June 30.
On Sunday, as the influx of tourists was considerably high, the Pune Rural Police evacuated all visitors from Bhushi Dam around 5.30 pm.
Moreover, a popular trekking route from Atkarwadi village in the hills to Sinhagad Fort was closed to tourists after boulders fell on the road early on Sunday.
The Nashik Rural Police have also stepped up security measures at various tourist spots in the district to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure safety of tourists.
“Prohibitory orders have been issued at the district collector level. The orders are being strictly implemented over the weekend,” said Vikram Deshmane, commissioner of police (rural).
Deshmane pointed out that due to the huge influx of tourists, enhanced security measures have been implemented mainly at places like Bhavari Dam in Igatpuri, Pahine and Dugalwadi on the Goti-Trimbakeshwar road.
