Lonavala Waterfall Bhushi Dam: In a tragic incident, a sudden downpour at Bhushi Dam in Lonavala, Pune, led to the loss of several lives as the water levels rose unpredictably. The Ansari family, visiting the area for a wedding, was caught off guard by the rapid increase in water flow. Five family members were swept away by the strong currents from a waterfall behind the dam. Four bodies have been recovered, while one person remains missing.
The victims, including children and women, were enjoying the popular rain tourism spot when the accident occurred. The sudden 15-minute rain significantly increased the waterfall’s flow, making it impossible for the family to gauge the danger.
A rescue operation was immediately launched by the Shivdurg team. “Tourists flock to Lonavala during heavy rains, but the sudden surge in water flow can be deadly,” explained Gawde, a member of the rescue team. The bodies recovered so far were found in the backwaters of Bhushi Dam, and the search for the remaining family member continues.
District Collector Suhas Dinde visited the site to oversee the ongoing rescue efforts. “We are doing everything possible to find the missing person and ensure the safety of all visitors,” he stated.
The rescue teams managed to find three bodies in the dam’s backwaters, including a woman, a 13-year-old girl, and a seven-year-old boy. Due to the darkness, the search operations were halted and will resume today.
This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of water levels in the Bhushi Dam area, especially during the monsoon season, and underscores the need for caution and awareness among tourists.
