Satara: Entry Banned at Kaas Plateau, Waterfalls, and Mahabaleshwar Sites Till August 19
Satara, 20th June 2025: In view of the persistent heavy rainfall across the district, the Satara district administration has imposed strict restrictions on access to several key tourist destinations until August 19, prioritising public safety during the ongoing monsoon season.
Restrictions Cover Popular Monsoon Attractions
The official order, which comes into effect from June 20, prohibits tourist entry into several heavily visited monsoon hotspots, including:
Kaas Pushp Pathar (Kaas Plateau)
Thoseghar and Vajrai waterfalls
Lingmala Falls in Mahabaleshwar
Ajinkyatara Fort
Other waterfalls, lakes, and dam-adjacent areas across Satara, Mahabaleshwar, and Panchgani
Local officials have reported dangerous overcrowding, particularly near overflowing water bodies and slippery pathways, prompting the need for such preventive steps.
Clear Rules to Prevent Accidents
The administration has banned swimming or entering fast-flowing streams and rivers, along with sitting directly beneath waterfalls, a common but risky habit during the rains. Adventure selfies and video shooting near cliff edges, waterfall bases, and narrow hill roads are also strictly disallowed.
“People often underestimate the force of water during monsoon,” the Collector noted. “Standing under waterfalls or on wet edges for photographs is extremely dangerous. We urge tourists to act responsibly.”
Zero Tolerance for Misconduct
Other rules under the monsoon safety directive include:
No alcohol consumption near natural sites
Legal action against anyone entering restricted areas under the influence
Ban on stopping vehicles in unsafe zones or obstructing roads
Strict consequences for misbehaviour, particularly towards women
Additionally, loudspeakers, DJ systems, and any form of public nuisance through music or parties at tourist spots have been disallowed.
The administration has deployed local police, forest officials, and disaster management teams to enforce the guidelines and ensure a safe monsoon experience across the district.
