Pune, July 06, 2026: District Collector and District Magistrate of Pune, Jitendra Dudi has imposed section 163 in certain areas of Lonavala from July 6, 2026, to August 31, 2026. The ban will stay in force everyday from 6 am to 6 pm.

This order specifically covers the following tourist spots:

Bhaje Waterfall and Bhaje Caves
Karla Caves and Ekvira Devi Temple
Lohagad Fort, Visapur Fort, Tikona Fort, and Tung Fort
Tiger Point, Lions Point, and Shivling Point
Pawana Dam area

Heavy monsoon rainfall increases the risk of accidents at tourist spots. The order follows the tragic incidents of drowning and being swept away by water and dying in the mountains.

Lonavala Rural Police have reported that 15 tourists have drowned in the Pawana Dam area due to misjudging the water depth, and 6 tourists were swept away and died in the mountains under the Lonavala City Police jurisdiction due to sudden, heavy rain.

The district administration has this order to control large number of tourists visiting during weekends, causing a chaos and traffic jams on the roads leading to the tourist spots.

Additionally 4 crimes involving theft and robbery have been registered at tourist spots like Tiger Point, Lions Point, Pawana Dam, and Bhaje Waterfall.

List of Prohibited Activities During the Ban

Entering fast-flowing water bodies or swimming in them.
Going near waterfalls or sitting directly under the water flow.
Taking selfies or making reels at dangerous spots, waterfalls, valley edges, and sharp turns.
Consumption of alcohol, entering in an intoxicated state, carrying liquor, illegal sale, or open consumption around natural waterfalls.
Stopping vehicles on traffic routes or dangerous turns.
Driving at excessive speeds or in a manner that obstructs traffic.
Careless driving, dangerous overtaking, or risking other vehicles.
Littering food items, garbage, glass bottles, plastic bottles, thermocol, or plastic materials in public spaces.
Harassment or teasing of women visiting public places.
Playing loud music, using DJ systems, or operating high-volume speakers/woofers in vehicles causing noise pollution.
Engaging in any activity that causes sound, air, or water pollution.
Vehicle Restriction: Entry of all two-wheelers, four-wheelers, and six-wheelers is strictly prohibited in the immediate vicinity of waterfalls, dams, and rivers.

Tourists are advised to strictly adhere to guidelines and make their contribution towards a safe monsoon season at Lonavala’s famous tourist spots.