PUNE: Trekkers and visitors have been appealed to postpone their plans at least till March 31 in the wake of coronavirus’ spread in Maharashtra. The Forest Department as well the local village committees managing these forts have taken this decision.

Sinhagad Fort and Shivneri Fort in Pune, Kalsubai Fort and Harsichandragad Fort in Ahmednagar, Lohagad-Visapur in Lonavla and Prabalgad in Panvel are some of the forts that have been closed for visitors.

Akhil Maharashtra Giryarohan Mahasangh (AMGM) advised trekker to follow State and Central governments’ guidelines and stay at home. AMGM President Umesh Zirpe said, “Trekkers and mountain enthusiasts should refrain from visiting all these forts till March 31st.”

Member of Durgpremi Giribhraman Sanstha Aniket Bokil said, “Right now popular destinations around Maharashtra have been closed down temporarily, therefore, major forts have also been closed including Sinhagad fort. Many trekkers’ groups have also cancelled their booking till March 31.”
Officials from the Forest Department told Sakal Times that a notice to this effect has been put at the entrance gates of Shivneri Fort.