Satara District Collector Jitendra Dudi announced a temporary ban on visiting tourist spots in the western part of Satara until Sunday (July 28).

The decision, made late Thursday (July 25) night, affects popular tourist destinations in the talukas of Satara, Mahabaleshwar, Jawali, and Patan. District authorities urge tourists to adhere to the ban and prioritize safety during this period of intense rainfall.

This measure has been taken in response to ongoing heavy rains and the forecast of more rain in the coming days to ensure the safety of visitors.

The affected areas include Lingmala and Bhilare waterfalls and all points in Mahabaleshwar taluka, Ozarde and Sada Waghapur in Patan taluka, Thoseghar, Kelvali, Vajrai, and Bhambvali waterfalls, Kaas lake in Satara taluka, and Ekjiv waterfall in Jawali taluka.

Meanwhile, popular monsoon tourist spots in Pune district have also been ordered to remain closed until further notice. Pune District Collector Dr. Suhas Divase mentioned that in Bhor, Maval, Mulshi, and other talukas, large crowds often gather for tourism.

Consequently, the local administration, including the sub-divisional officer, tehsildar, talathi, and tourism department, have been instructed to take necessary action.

Torrential rains since Wednesday (July 24) night have led to the deaths of four individuals in Pune district. Due to landslides and water overflowing bridges, traffic has been halted on two state highways and seven district roads.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, along with five army units, have been deployed to assist and relocate citizens amidst the flood situation.