Maharashtra: Shivneri fort, Bhimashankar temple closed to tourists

PUNE: The Junnar forest division has closed the wildlife areas under its limits to tourists in an effort to contain the spread of Covid-19.
The division inludes four tehsils Junnar, Ambegaon, Khed and Shirur. It is home to forts, ghats, pilgrim places, waterfalls and tourists destinations. As a result, it sees a rise in tourists in the monsoon.
Jayram Gowda, deputy conservator of forests, Junnar division, told TOI, “All forest areas under our division have been closed to tourists till further notice.We had to take the decision considering the influx of tourists from big cities during the monsoon.”
The famous pilgrim location Bhimashankar temple will also remain closed. “The areas in and around the temple is frequented by tourists in large numbers hence there is a need to keep it shut. Our village-level committees have been activated and they will work in tandem with our staffers and respective police stations. We will act against violators,” Gowda added.
The famous forts like Shivneri will also remain shut.
Local villagers haven’t taken to the decision since most are involved in the tourist business, particularly during the monsoon months. “Monsoon is the prime season for us to earn some money. Last year, the heavy rainfall hampered business so we had big hopes this year. Thousands of tribal villagers earn their livelihood in this period,” said Shankar Shengale, who runs a stall near Bhimashankar temple.