Tourists & trekkers evacuated amid heavy rainfall in Maha! Raigad Fort closed until July 31

As a safety precaution during peak monsoon season, the District Collector on Monday, announced the closure of Raigad Fort for visitors till July 31. This decision was taken after Raigad district witnessed cloudburst-like rain, due to which a number of visitors were stuck at the Fort on Sunday. A rescue operation by police and district authorities was initiated to save almost 500 stranded tourists and trekkers at the fort, located 170 km from Mumbai.

In a viral video, tourists can be seen cautiously climbing down while supporting each other and gripping the fort walls. The rush to evacuate led to chaotic scenes of panic.

The situation was resolved within 20 minutes, however, the Raigad Collector decided to not take any more chances. The Collector's office promptly issued an order to close access to the Fort until the end of the month. To enforce this decision, approximately 15 police personnel have been stationed near the fort to deter any attempts by tourists to enter the premises.