Landslide at Kalu Waterfall: Pune Youth Dies During Trek
Junnar, 15th September 2025: A 23-year-old man from Pune, Himalkumar Binodkumar Singh of Kharadi, died on the spot after being struck by a stone from a landslide at Kalu Waterfall near Malshej Ghat on Sunday morning. His companion, Anshuman Maurya (23), sustained injuries in the incident.
Both men had visited the waterfall as part of a trekking group from Pune. After trekking in the morning, the group reached Kalu Waterfall, which cascades in five stages and has become a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its scenic beauty. While resting at the site, a sudden landslide caused a stone to fall on Himalkumar Singh, leading to his immediate death.
Local youth and Tokade police outpost helped in retrieving the body and assisting the injured companion. Authorities have highlighted the risks associated with trekking to Kalu Waterfall, citing slippery paths, deep water channels, and sudden water flow increases as recurring hazards.
Tourists frequently get stranded due to unexpected water surges, and fatalities have occurred here in the past. Despite this, there is no administrative presence or safety oversight at the waterfall, and no restrictions are in place for visitors or organized trekking groups.
Many tourists and local observers have called for strict regulations, controlled tourist access, and supervision at the site to prevent further tragedies. Experts also emphasize the importance of visitors being aware of the potential dangers and taking necessary precautions while trekking, especially when traveling in large groups organized by trekking agencies.
Kalu Waterfall, while a scenic attraction near Thitbi village, continues to pose significant risks to tourists, underlining the urgent need for safety measures and administrative oversight.
