VALPOI
As many as 11 waterfalls in Sattari have reopened to public and considering a large influx of visitors to these waterfalls on weekends, Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane has instructed forest department staff to ensure that directives are implemented at the sites.
Rane has directed the forest staff to take strict action against those who drink or cause mischief or try to enter the waterfalls under the influence of alcohol.
Following two drownings at a waterfall in Sanguem, the government had declared the waterfalls in wildlife sanctuaries as off-limits for visitors. This ban has now been lifted.
When contacted, Rane said the waterfalls in Sattari taluka are an attraction for a large number of visitors.
“But people should not misbehave at these waterfalls and instructions have been given to the forest department and other authorities concerned to enforce discipline at these waterfalls.”
According, forest, police and excise teams are expected to be posted at the various waterfalls at Pali, Hivre, Charwane, Gomdavali, Gulle, Chidambaram, Naneli, Kumthol, Dhadbhaba, Gule and Khadi Dhadbhaba Gulle, which fall in the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.
Visitors to these waterfalls will not be allowed to carry plastic and liquor bottles.
Meanwhile, there has been heavy rainfall in Sattari taluka since the last two days and visitors have been advised to exercise caution while visiting the waterfalls.
