Lonavala famous points remain closed on December 31 and January 1

To curb overcrowding and ensure public safety during New Year celebrations the Forest Department has announced the temporary closure of two popular tourist spots in Lonavala Lionrsquos Point and Tigerrsquos Point on December 31 and January 1Decision amid heavy tourist influx from Mumbai PuneThe decision comes amid a massive influx of tourists during the Christmas and New Year holidays especially from Mumbai and Pune Officials said the move is aimed at ensuring visitor safety easing traffic congestion and protecting forest areas and wildlifeIntensified patrolling ordered by forest authoritiesOrders were issued by the Wadgaon Maval Forest Range which stated that intensified patrolling will be carried out on both days Forest guards and officers will be stationed at key locations to monitor activities and take action against violationsMughda Joshi a regular commuter between Pune and Mumbai said ldquoOver the last week the express highway has been witnessing heavy traffic not just on weekends Closing the famous points for public safety is good but there is also a need to control unruly trafficrdquoLonavala police announce strict law and order measuresMeanwhile Lonavala police have announced strict enforcement measures to regulate crowds and maintain law and order Action will be taken against those consuming alcohol in public places creating disturbances or driving under the influence Tourists have been urged to follow rules and prioritise safetyExpressway traffic restrictions delays already reportedTraffic congestion has already been reported on the MumbaindashPune Expressway with long vehicle queues observed since the holiday season began To manage the situation highway police have introduced new traffic regulations including temporary restrictions on heavy vehicles on certain routes One stretch of the highway was briefly shut on Thursday to regulate traffic flowAuthorities warn of worsening congestion on December 31Authorities warned that conditions may worsen as December 31 approaches with commuters likely to face hourslong delays With hotels fully booked and tourist spots crowded the region has seen an unprecedented surge As Christmas weekends and New Year holidays fall consecutively Lonavala and Khandala have recorded a sharp rise in visitors Most hotels resorts and private villas are fully occupiedPopular locations such as Bhushi Dam Lonavala Lake Tungarli Lake Rajmachi Pavana Dam Dukersquos Nose Rajmachi Garden and the Karla and Bhaja caves are witnessing heavy footfall Several venues have organised special New Yearrsquos Eve events prompting authorities to tighten security and monitoringPune police step up drinkanddrive checksMeanwhile Pune police have announced intensified drinkanddrive checks over the next five days ahead of New Year celebrations Special nakabandis have been set up at major junctions party hubs and arterial roads Motorists found driving under the influence will face strict legal action including hefty fines licence suspension and vehicle seizure Citizens have been urged to use public transport or designated drivers and celebrate responsibly to prevent accidents and loss of life