100 Tourists Rescued at Raigad Waterfall, Two Missing

A major disaster was narrowly avoided in Maharashtra’s Raigad district after more than 100 tourists were rescued from Zenith Waterfall in Khopoli following a sudden surge in the water level triggered by heavy rainfall in the surrounding hills. However, in separate incidents at Kharghar’s Pandavkada Waterfall, two young men remain missing after being swept away by strong currents.

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The dramatic rescue operation at Zenith Waterfall lasted nearly three hours and was carried out jointly by local villagers, the Khopoli Fire Brigade, and police personnel.

Sudden Water Surge Traps Over 100 Tourists

As the weekend drew hundreds of visitors to Zenith Waterfall, many tourists crossed the river to reach the opposite side of the falls. Continuous rainfall in the nearby hills caused the river to swell rapidly, trapping more than 100 tourists at two separate locations.

The force of the water made it impossible for them to return safely, creating a life-threatening situation.

Villagers Lead Heroic Rescue

Even before emergency teams reached the spot, residents of Vihari Thakurwadi rushed to the waterfall carrying ropes and began rescue efforts.

Working alongside firefighters and police personnel, villagers formed rescue lines and safely evacuated stranded tourists one by one through the fast-flowing water. Their quick response prevented what could have turned into a devastating tragedy.

All stranded tourists were rescued safely, with many thanking the villagers and rescue teams for saving their lives.

Two Youths Missing at Pandavkada Waterfall

While one disaster was prevented, tragedy struck at Pandavkada Waterfall in Kharghar, where two young men were swept away in separate incidents within 24 hours despite restrictions on visiting the waterfall during the monsoon.

The first victim, 20-year-old Mohammad Mubashir Mohammad Shahid from Taloja, was swept away at around 7:30 PM on Friday.

The second incident occurred on Saturday around 8:30 AM, when 19-year-old Shennon Gasper Kini from Santacruz was washed away by the powerful current.

Fire brigade teams launched extensive search operations immediately after both incidents. However, despite continuous efforts throughout the day, both youths remained missing till late Saturday evening.

Authorities Issue Fresh Monsoon Warning

Following the back-to-back incidents, the Raigad district administration and local police have once again appealed to the public to avoid visiting waterfalls, overflowing rivers, and other dangerous tourist spots during the monsoon season.

Officials have urged tourists not to ignore safety restrictions, refrain from entering fast-flowing streams, and avoid taking selfies in hazardous locations to prevent further loss of life.