Pune: The Bopdev Ghat, a well-known tourist attraction on the Pune-Saswad road, is becoming increasingly unsafe after dark. The area, which is often deserted at night, has witnessed criminal incidents, including a case of gang assault on a young woman a few months ago. Despite this, young couples continue to frequent the area at night.
A recent midnight patrol by the Kondhwa police revealed that several young couples were present in the ghat. Taking strict action, the police booked around 40 couples under the Mumbai Police Act. During the recent patrol, the police noticed several two-wheelers parked suspiciously in the area.
Upon investigation, they found young men and women sitting in secluded spots. A senior female officer, along with her team, detained two young men and a woman, issued them a warning, and informed their parents, who reside in another state. Officials stated that without timely police intervention, the situation could have escalated into a serious incident.
Locals have repeatedly raised concerns about the growing presence of young couples and alcohol consumption in the ghat area. Residents and commuters have demanded stricter security measures to prevent any untoward incidents.
The police have deployed personnel at a checkpoint in the ghat both during the day and night. Sudden blockades are also set up at both ends of the ghat to question suspicious individuals. Couples found loitering in the area are given warnings, and their parents are informed. Additionally, a riot control team patrols the area between 10 PM and midnight.
Under instructions from Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Kondhwa Senior Police Inspector Vinay Patankar has taken action against 40 couples under Section 122 of the Mumbai Police Act.
The Bopdev Ghat falls under multiple administrative bodies, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the District Council, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and the Forest Department. These authorities have been requested to install streetlights and CCTV cameras in the area. Although a survey has been conducted, the installation of these security measures has not yet been completed, confirmed Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 5) Dr. Rajkumar Shinde.
Despite police efforts, the Bopdev Ghat area remains poorly lit, making it a security concern. Moreover, some groups have now started gathering at another secluded spot near Jagdamba Bhavan in Pisoli. Residents have urged authorities to increase police patrols in this area as well.
"There is an urgent need to install streetlights and CCTV cameras to ensure safety in the ghat. Local representatives should allocate funds to address this issue," said Snehal Dagde, Social Activist.
