Mangaon Police Book 7 for Promoting Devkund Trips

A significant development has taken place in the case of the prohibited Devkund Waterfall in Raigad's Mangaon taluka, where two tourists drowned recently. The Mangaon police have booked seven alleged accused, including tour operators and Instagram influencers, for promoting and organising trips to the restricted destination through social media.

The accused, who operate various Instagram accounts, have been charged with disobeying a lawful order promulgated by a public servant. The police complaint, filed by Constable Ganesh Samel, alleges that these accounts were used to advertise and promote trips to Devkund Waterfall despite a monsoon ban on entry.

The prohibitory orders, issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Mangaon, have been in force from July 1 to September 30, prohibiting entry to Devkund Waterfall and surrounding areas due to the dangers posed during the monsoon. However, the police alleged that one of the accused organised paid trips to Devkund and uploaded promotional videos on Instagram to attract tourists for financial gain, despite the restrictions.

The remaining accused allegedly publicised schedules of upcoming tours and encouraged tourists to visit the prohibited destination, knowing that the ban was in force. The police have stated that such promotions encourage people to violate restrictions that have been imposed solely to protect lives during the monsoon.

The FIR comes two days after two employees from Chakan MIDC drowned after entering the prohibited waterfall with a group of tourists. The group had been turned away at the official entry point but allegedly reached the waterfall through an alternative route before the two men entered the deep pool and drowned.

Police Inspector Sanjay Bangar of Mangaon Police Station stated that action will be taken against anyone found facilitating or encouraging unauthorised visits to prohibited tourist destinations. The police are currently investigating the role of each of the seven alleged accused and determining whether any other individuals or organisations were involved.

The incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety guidelines and restrictions during the monsoon season. The police have urged tourists to exercise caution and avoid visiting prohibited areas, as it can put their lives at risk.

The case also raises concerns about the role of social media in promoting and organising trips to restricted areas. The police have warned that promoting such activities can have serious consequences and will not be tolerated.

In recent years, there have been several incidents of tourists getting injured or killed while visiting restricted areas. The authorities have been working to raise awareness about the dangers of visiting such areas and the importance of following safety guidelines.

The booking of the seven alleged accused is a significant step towards ensuring that those who promote and organise trips to restricted areas are held accountable. The police will continue to investigate the case and take necessary action against those found guilty.

The incident serves as a reminder to tourists to prioritize their safety and adhere to restrictions and guidelines during the monsoon season. It also highlights the need for responsible social media usage and the importance of promoting safe and responsible tourism practices.

In conclusion, the booking of the seven alleged accused for promoting and organising trips to Devkund Waterfall is a significant development in the case. The police will continue to investigate and take necessary action to ensure that those who promote and organise trips to restricted areas are held accountable. The incident serves as a reminder to tourists to prioritize their safety and adhere to restrictions and guidelines during the monsoon season.