Kolhapur: To handle the heavy influx of visitors during the upcoming Mahabaleshwar Tourism Festival, authorities have announced one-way traffic regulations on the ghat roads linking Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani. The three-day festival, set to begin on May 2, is expected to draw massive crowds to the twin hill stations in Satara district.

With a surge in tourists, along with dignitaries and special invitees, daily footfall is anticipated to triple—rising from the usual 50,000-60,000 on weekends to significantly higher numbers.

Traffic Diversion Plan

  • Tourists from Mumbai/Pune: Arriving via Wai should take the Pasarni Ghat road to enter Mahabaleshwar.
  • Exit Route: Visitors leaving Mahabaleshwar for Pune/Bengaluru should take the Meda-Kudal-Pachwad route to join NH 48.
  • Mahabaleshwar to Panchgani (via Bhilar): One-way route via Uday Hotel Chowk, R R Cottage Chowk, Mahabaleshwar Naka, and Avkali.
  • Mahabaleshwar to Venna Lake: Tourists must follow the Market-R R Cottage-Nakinda Phata route.
  • Visitors from Sangli, Kolhapur, Satara: Should use the Meda route for entry and exit.

Parking & Event Highlights

  • Designated parking lots have been set up near festival venues.
  • Events include a laser show, musical fest, adventure sports, food festival, kids’ activities, fort exhibition, yoga, and boating.
  • A tent city has been arranged for nature stays, with shuttle buses ferrying tourists to key spots.

Safety Measures

  • NDRF teams will be stationed in Mahabaleshwar for emergencies.
  • Disaster management volunteers and Apada Mitras will assist tourists and ensure safety.

source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com