An initiative in Vangani will ensure that the Bhagirathi dam and waterfall, is recreated through the year, thus keeping local tourism alive and flowing in the right direction
An initiative in Vangani will ensure that the Bhagirathi dam and waterfall,u00a0is recreatedu00a0through the year, thus keeping local tourism alive and flowing in the right direction
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The arrival of the monsoons evokes images of lush green landscapes, cool weather and most importantly, weekend getaways from Mumbai's hectic life. Waterfalls are a godsend to nature lovers who miss no chance to take advantage of the opportunity.u00a0
The Bhagirathi waterfall at Vangani PIC/SHRIKANT KHUPERKAR
In the small town of Vangani, on the outskirts of Mumbai, the Bhagirathi waterfall is a spot that is fast becoming a draw among nature lovers. A recent project undertaken by the Konkan Vikas Manch, a local organisation, has ensured that this waterfall is accessible to hikers and picnickers throughout the year.
Small treasures
The focus of the organisation is to bring new and innovative ideas into practice to promote tourism in this small town. Manohar Shelar, an active member, gathered local help to clean the waterfall site and make it a safe environment, free of garbage and debris, for monsoon tourists and visitors. With support from Kisan Rathore, Ambernath taluka's MLA, a 25 feet deep dam is being built at the base of Bhagirath waterfall that will pump the natural water flow into a concrete tank constructed above it, recreating the waterfall throughout the year.u00a0
u00a0Kisan Rathore says, "We intend to attract tourists to our beautiful town, which allows local businesses to flourish all year long. In a cityscape like Mumbai, there is hardly much scope for weekend hikes and treks. Vangani comes into my constituency and when I was approached with this idea, I immediately approved of it.
Vangani's calm and quiet climate is the ideal location for this and we hope it will be a huge hit."
u00a0Mangesh Pawaskar, a picnicker from a Mumbai-based group that visited Vangani believes an annual waterfall is a terrific idea. "The only hitch is its lack of accessibility. They should construct a small and easy path to reach Bhagirath. We also carry snacks from Mumbai. If the Konkan Manch provides for food stalls and lodging, it is bound to attract more visitors."
Hoe to reach: Vangani lies on the Mumbai-Karjat route and is easily accessible by Central Railway. Bhagirath waterfall lies on the east of Vangani station and is an auto-rickshaw ride away.
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