As the monsoon season draws near, the Deputy Conservator of Forests for the Pune Forest Division, Tushar Chavan, has urged trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts to be conscious of their environmental impact while enjoying their outdoor activities.
The appeal was made keeping in mind the mishaps that took place last monsoon. In a tragic incident last year, five members of a family lost their lives near Maharashtra's Bhushi Dam near Lonavala.
After this, the Pune district administration had imposed prohibitory orders at several popular picnic spots, including Bhushi Dam and the Pavana Dam region, to ensure the safety of tourists during the monsoon season.
The order was effective from July 2 to 31 and prohibited gatherings of five or more persons, restricts individuals from entering deep water bodies, and bans taking selfies and creating reels at these sites.
In Pune district, the tehsils around the Western Ghats, including Maval, Khed, Mulshi, Bhor, Junnar, Ambegaon, and Velhe, experience significant tourism activity and also have the potential for hazards.
Speaking about the need for responsible hiking to protect Pune’s natural beauty and keep everyone safe, as more tourists visit the city to enjoy the monsoon, he urged hikers to stay on approved routes, refrain from leaving trash behind, and be ready for unforeseen weather conditions.
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Additionally, Chavan advised visitors to respect wildlife by avoiding close contact and not interfering with their habitats.
Acknowledging the excitement that the monsoon brings, he reminded everyone that the responsibility to protect Pune’s environment is a shared one, urging both locals and visitors to be mindful stewards of nature.
Through these simple yet important guidelines, Chavan said that he hopes to ensure that nature lovers can enjoy the season while also contributing to the preservation of Pune’s vibrant ecosystem for generations to come.
Famous spots in Pune
Maval Tehsil: Bhushi Dam, Bendewadi and Dahuli Waterfalls
Khandala: Tiger Point, Lion's Point, Rajmachi Point
Pavana Dam region: Sahara Bridge, Tata Dam, Ghubad Lake
Mulshi Tehsil: Mulshi Dam, Tamhini Ghat, Milkybar Waterfall
Khadakwasla and Warasgaon Dams: Haveli Tehsil
Ambegaon Tehsil: Bhimashankar, Dimbhe Dam, Kondhwal Waterfall
Junnar Tehsil: Malshej Ghat, Shivneri Fort, Manikdoh
Bhor and Velha Tehsils: Bhatghar Dam, other waterfalls and water bodies
Khed and Indapur Tehsils: Water bodies and ghat sections
