Monsoon Safety or Mismanagement? Residents Protest Closure of Varandha Ghat Route
The closure of the Bhor-Mahad Varandha Ghat route to heavy vehicles and light vehicles during red and orange alerts has sparked outrage among local residents, who rely on the road for essential travel.
Monsoon SafetyVarandha GhatRoad ClosureLocal ProtestsPune AdministrationReal Estate PuneJun 23, 2025
However, the order has largely been ignored, with vehicles continuing to use the ghat road. Taking firm action, the Raigad administration on Friday (June 20) afternoon blocked the route by dumping stones and mud, leading to temporary chaos. Stranded and unaware of the sudden closure, local drivers took it upon themselves to clear the debris, allowing light vehicles to pass until the evening. The lack of advance notice triggered strong displeasure among locals.
The closure has sparked concern in several villages, including Deoghar, Venupuri, Kondhari, Hirdoshi, Warwand, Karungan, Shirgaon, Shilimb, Ashimpi, Umbarde, Durgadi, Abhepuri, and Chaudharywadi. Residents rely on the Varandha Ghat road for essential travel to Mahad taluka’s markets, schools, and hospitals. Public transport in the region is scarce, with only one State Transport (ST) bus halting at Shilimb. For years, locals have depended on private vehicles to commute through this ghat.
“Closing the road completely is unfair to residents. Our children travel to Varandha for school, and we use the route for hospitals and markets. The administration should not shut it for all vehicles,” said Prakash Pawar, a resident of Umbarde village.
“For five to six years now, the ghat has been closed each monsoon, but what permanent solutions have been implemented? The widening work is happening in Hirdoshi, not in the ghat stretch, which is still motorable. We’ve written to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari demanding that light vehicle access be maintained,” added Dr. Nitin Deshmukh, a resident of Varandha.
Residents and local leaders have criticised the authorities for failing to notify travelers adequately. With no prominent signs posted on routes leading to the ghat, many drivers unknowingly enter the closed section, only to find themselves stranded.
Locals have urged the Bhor administration to install clear signage at key junctions such as Kapurhol, Shindewadi (Khandala taluka), Nigudghar near Neera-Deoghar Dam, and the Bhor-Varandha boundary to prevent further confusion and ensure public safety.
With the road remaining vital to the day-to-day lives of people in over a dozen villages, the demand to allow continued passage of light vehicles is growing louder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Varandha Ghat route closed?
The route was closed to heavy vehicles until September 30 and light vehicles during red and orange alerts to prevent landslides and ensure safety during the monsoon season, as per directives from the Pune administration.
What action did the Raigad administration take to enforce the closure?
The Raigad administration blocked the route by dumping stones and mud, leading to temporary chaos and stranding many drivers.
Which villages are affected by the closure?
The closure affects several villages, including Deoghar, Venupuri, Kondhari, Hirdoshi, Warwand, Karungan, Shirgaon, Shilimb, Ashimpi, Umbarde, Durgadi, Abhepuri, and Chaudharywadi.
Why are locals protesting the closure?
Locals are protesting because they rely on the Varandha Ghat road for essential travel to markets, schools, and hospitals, and the closure is seen as unfair and disruptive to their daily lives.
What are the residents' demands?
Residents are demanding the installation of clear signage at key junctions and the maintenance of light vehicle access during the monsoon season.
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