Lonavala, July 8, 2024: Rains are currently continuing in northern Pune district, especially in Lonavala and Khandala, the tourist capitals of Maharashtra. A large number of tourists were seen enjoying the rainy season amidst heavy fog and rain showers on Sunday. Currently, Lonavala is experiencing heavy rains, with 128mm of rainfall recorded on Sunday morning.
Tourists were enjoying the cool and pleasant weather and of course tourism is the mainstay of the economy of Lonavala and Khandala. Due to the weekend holiday, tourist spots were crowded with tourists seeking fun and relaxation. Lion’s Point, Rajmachi Garden, Bhushi Dam, Bajje Buddhist Caves, Bajje Falls and Karla Caves were the major tourist spots and these points including Pawana Dam area were crowded with tourists throughout the day.
The fallout from last Sunday’s Bhushi Dam accident has affected tourism this weekend. Due to the rise in accidents at tourist spots like Bhushi Dam, Rogadh Fort, Bajhe and Lion’s Point, the Pune Rural Police and Pune district administration have taken precautionary measures and announced restrictions on tourists. Nevertheless, Lonavala was packed with tourists on Sunday. Many have shifted to private bungalows or the countryside for accommodation. Tourists thronged to buy the famous chikki and jelly sweets. However, due to traffic problems, police have prohibited vehicles from parking. Seven policemen, 70 constables and 30 volunteers have been deployed in the Lonavala area to guard tourist spots and direct traffic.
Police have been barring tourists from entering these areas since 5pm, and traffic has been slow in the districts of Baje and Bushi as cars queue up.
