Pune: Tourist Boom Leaves Lonavala’s Scenic Spots Struggling Under Plastic and Waste Crisis

Lonavala, 5th July 2025: A dramatic rise in tourists at popular monsoon destinations such as Lions Point and Tiger Point has triggered serious environmental concerns. While these scenic viewpoints and the nearby Bhushi Dam attract lakhs of visitors during the rainy season, boosting the local economy, the surge has left behind mountains of garbage and plastic waste, putting local biodiversity at risk.

Plastic litter, in particular, has emerged as a major threat, harming the fragile ecosystem. Ironically, tourists themselves have raised complaints about poor hygiene and inadequate waste management in these overcrowded spots.

A complex administrative structure only worsens the problem. Lions Point and Tiger Point technically belong to the forest department, but jurisdictionally fall under Atvan and Kurvande gram panchayats, outside municipal limits. The forest department, along with the Joint Forest Management Committee, collects parking and nuisance fees from tourists, yet critics argue there is little sign of these funds being used to maintain cleanliness.

Beyond the trash, there are social concerns too. Lions Point has turned into a gathering place for couples and those consuming alcohol, with the area often strewn with liquor bottles and shards of glass once visitors leave, adding to public safety hazards.

Local police admit that maintaining law and order is becoming increasingly difficult. Organisations like INS Shivaji, the Air Force Station, and social groups have had to repeatedly step in to carry out clean-up campaigns.

Environmental activists warn that if stricter enforcement and better tourist education are not introduced soon, Lonavala’s valuable biodiversity may face irreversible damage. They are urging a coordinated approach to promote responsible family tourism and control antisocial activities to protect the region’s delicate ecological balance.
Akshata Pawar