Cloudburst-Like Rain At Raigad Fort, Video Shows Tourists Struggle Amid Waterfall-Like Conditions

Intense and relentless rainfall has struck the Raigad district, creating hazardous conditions that have prompted authorities to close Raigad Fort to tourists. The decision to close the fort, effective today till July 31, was made to ensure the safety of visitors amidst the extreme weather.

The heavy rains have turned the roads leading to Raigad Fort, particularly the Chitta Darwaza and Nane Darwaza, into treacherous pathways. These roads, which normally provide foot access to the fort, have been barricaded, and police have been deployed to manage the situation and prevent any accidents.

According to reports, over 30 people have been stranded due to the heavy rain and strong water currents, which are sweeping away debris and making it challenging for rescue teams to reach those in need. Rescue operations are currently underway to evacuate those stranded at the fort.

The Raigad Fort, a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra, is known for its historic significance and stunning architecture. The fort has been an important landmark since the 17th century and attracts thousands of visitors every year. However, today's weather conditions have made it impossible for tourists to access the site.

The local administration has appealed to tourists to stay away from the area until further notice, as the situation is still precarious. Efforts are underway to restore normalcy and ensure that all those stranded at the fort are safely evacuated.

The Raigad police and district administration teams arrived at the scene to evacuate tourists and trekkers, according to an official.

"There was no cloudburst, but the area has experienced heavy rainfall," the official stated, adding that Mhasala, Srivardhan, and Mahad tehsils have also seen significant showers.

The Raigad fort has been closed to tourists and trekkers until July 31 due to the heavy downpour. Only the ropeway to reach the fort will remain operational, he added.

Meanwhile, in the past 24 hours, several parts of Maharashtra, Konkan, and Goa, including Thane, Raigad, and Ratnagiri districts, experienced heavy rainfall. Matheran in Raigad district recorded 22 cm of rain, Ratnagiri received 15 cm, Rajapur 13 cm, Panvel 12 cm, Ponda 12 cm, Karjat 11 cm, Murbad in Thane 11 cm, Lanja 11 cm, Khalapur 11 cm, Mandangad 11 cm, Sangameshwar Devrukh 10 cm, Awalegaon 9 cm, Shahapur 9 cm, and Roha 8 cm.

Raigad also experienced high wind speeds of 65 kmph, while Pune saw winds reaching 33 kmph and Satara 57 kmph during the same period.