Landslides block Mumbai-Nashik and Mumbai-Goa highways at Kasara and Parshuram Ghats
Two separate landslides disrupted traffic on major highways at the old Kasara Ghat on the Mumbai–Nashik Highway and near Dhamandevi in the Parshuram Ghat section of the Mumbai–Goa Highway on Monday morning. The incidents blocked roads with debris, prompting emergency clearance operations and a statement from Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule regarding the maintenance responsibilities of highway construction agencies.
At the old Kasara Ghat, a portion of the hillside collapsed, sending soil, rocks, and trees crashing onto the roadway. The debris partially blocked the route and slowed down vehicular movement through the ghat section. Local police and rescue teams arrived at the scene to launch clearance operations. No injuries or casualties were reported in the incident.
The second landslide occurred early Monday morning near Dhamandevi in the Parshuram Ghat section. A large quantity of soil and boulders fell onto the Mumbai–Goa Highway, forcing authorities to close one lane. District administration and highway authorities used JCB machines to clear the debris, while police supervised vehicles passing cautiously through the remaining open lane. No casualties were reported at this site.
Following the disruptions, Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule addressed reporters regarding the damage. He stated that after any construction work, there is a designated 'defect liability period' during which the concerned agency is responsible for fixing any technical issues that arise.
"The landslide occurred due to a natural event. Did we cause the landslide? The damage occurred because of the landslide, and it will be repaired," Bawankule said. He added that the responsible agencies are following the proper process to resolve the issues.
With heavy rainfall continuing across the Konkan region and the Western Ghats, authorities have warned that the risk of landslides remains high. Commuters have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel through these ghat sections and to remain alert while driving.
