Maharashtra Tourism Issues Safety Advisory After Fatal Trekking Accidents
The Maharashtra Tourism Department has issued a strict advisory urging all adventure tourism operators, resort owners, and service providers to comply with the state's formal Adventure Tourism Policy. The directive comes after a series of fatal accidents at unmonitored tourist spots, including the death of a 22-year-old dog trainer from Thane during a monsoon trek.
The enforcement drive follows several fatal incidents at high-risk locations during peak travel seasons. On August 2, the Thane-based youth died during a trek between Zenith waterfall and KP Waterfall in Raigad's Khopoli after losing his balance and falling into a deep gorge. In two separate incidents, two young boys drowned in the Kalu river near Malshej Ghat. Following the recurring mishaps, the state's chief secretary directed government departments to prioritise citizen safety and restrict access to risk-prone tourist destinations during the monsoon.
Under the state's Adventure Tourism Policy, the Directorate of Tourism is pushing for universal registration and official certification of all commercial adventure activities to prevent safety lapses. The policy requires operators to implement comprehensive safety measures before conducting any excursions.
Mandatory safety protocols include the deployment of certified and trained local guides and instructors, the installation of watchtowers, directional signage, sirens, and safety nets at critical spots. Operators are also required to maintain dedicated emergency rescue setups, on-site first-aid facilities, and fire-safety equipment, alongside obtaining all necessary prior approvals and permissions.
Tourism Director Vikas Pansare stated that the policy aims to give a new direction to tourism development in Maharashtra while boosting visitor confidence and generating local employment. He noted that adventure activities are being conducted more systematically across the state and urged all operators to complete their official registrations.
The policy applies to a wide range of stakeholders, including private companies, individual operators, non-profit organisations, adventure camps, resorts, and training institutes. Regulated activities include mountaineering, parasailing, scuba diving, and bungee jumping.
Stakeholders can access safety norms and complete their official registration online through the Tourism Department's portal. Authorities confirmed that operators conducting unregistered, high-risk activities without compliance will face legal penalties and closures.
