COVID-19: No entry for tourists in Maval; police to take strict action against violators

Pune: On the backdrop of rising coronavirus cases, Maval taluka in Pune district which is known for its scenic beauty during the monsoon season now has prohibited entry for tourists in 31 villages.

A number of tourists visit Andarmaval, Pawanmaval, Nanemaval and Lonavala, Khandala every year. In past, there have been several incidents of drowning too. Many times, despite the ban, tourists risk their lives to enjoy the rainy season. This year, in the wake of increasing COVID-19 cases, District Collector Naval Kishore Ram has banned tourism in the dam area of the district.

However, tourist spots including Andarmaval, Nanemaval, Pavana Dam, Lonavala Khandala recently witnessed people travelling to enjoy the rainy spell amid the coronavirus fear. This has now prompted the Pune Rural police to cordoned off the area especially on the weekends when tourists flock here in huge numbers.

Despite the ban, some tourists are continuing to venture but now police have started filing cases against them and taking punitive action against the violators.

A STRICT BAN

A ban has been issued in 31 villages including forts, caves and tourist areas including the dam area of Maval taluka. To keep a tab in such movement, police have deployed check post in the area.

BANNED AT 31 PLACES IN MAVAL

Vadeshwar, Takve Budruk, Phalane, Mau, Nagathali, Vahangaon, Kusavali, Borwali, Dahuli, Savla, Kusur, Nilshi, Khand, Rajmachi, Fansarai, Udhewadi, Pavanadharan and Bhushi Dam area, Tungarli Dam, Rajmachi, Monkey Point Khandala, Dukes Nose Kurwande, Ghorvadeshwar Dongar, Ekvira Devi, Carla Caves, Bhaje Caves, Bhaje Falls, Lohagad, Visapur, Tikona Fort, Ambegaon Falls, Dudhivare Prati Pandharpur, Tiger Point at Lonavala, Shivling Point and more.