Officials ‘raid’ waterfalls in Sattari

Confiscate liquor bottles, plastic bagsrrVALPOIr rWith heavy rains lashing since the last two days, a large number of people are flocking to the waterfalls. However, with the authorities acting strictly, the tourists had to return back without much amusement on Saturday. rWaterfalls in Sattari taluka have been attracting people for the last many years and people in large numbers are flocking there during weekends and holidays. They carry with them liquor and eatables wrapped in plastic bags and while returning back throw empty bottles and plastic in the vicinity of the waterfalls. rThe forest dept had recently instructed locals and tourists not to carry liquor and plastic at the waterfall areas in wildlife sanctuaries. There were incidents of clashes after consuming liquor and insulting the locals at Charavne, Hivre, Shelpi and other places. rThe Excise Dept officials, forest guards and the police are strictly implementing the order of the forest department of not allowing liquor and plastic near the waterfalls. r“We initiated action on Saturday at the instructions of Deputy Collector Valpoi. Police have been deputed at different waterfalls in Chorla Ghat and other places in Sattari. We will not tolerate misbehaviour and drinking liquor at waterfall areas,” said Valpoi PI Deepak Pernakar. rPrakash Salelkar, superintendent forest officer of Madhei Sanctuary, said the forest department will keep a strict vigil in Mhadei Sanctuary area and those carrying liquor will be punished.