Landslide Damages Tapola-Mahabaleshwar Road, Traffic Diverted via Alternate Route
Satara, 20th June 2025: A major landslide struck the Zhol Khind forest area near Maharola on the Tapola-Mahabaleshwar Road, severely damaging the recently constructed tarmac. A stretch approximately 40 metres long and 5 metres wide was completely washed away, prompting officials to shut the route and divert traffic.
The landslide occurred following continuous heavy rainfall, which not only triggered the slope failure but also made restoration work challenging for ground crews.
Speaking about the situation, Tehsildar Tejaswini Patil said,
“Due to the extent of the damage and the risk of additional landslides, we have closed the affected stretch for safety. Commuters are advised to take the Manghar–Parut–Zholachi Khind route as an alternative until repairs are completed.”
Three JCB excavators have been deployed by the Public Works Department (PWD) to begin backfilling and road repairs. However, intermittent rainfall continues to slow down progress.
“We understand the inconvenience this causes, but safety is our first priority. I urge travelers to use the detour with caution and avoid panic,” added Patil.
Authorities are also keeping a close watch on surrounding hillsides to assess the risk of further landslides in the region. Until the weather stabilizes and repairs are secured, traffic will remain diverted. Road users are requested to follow updates issued by local authorities.
