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The residents and traders have demanded that the tourist spot would be completely shut until the administration curbs the fraudulent activities.
The hotel industry, e-rickshaw associations, traders, social organisations have also announced their support. (File)
Matheran, a popular tourist destination in Maharashtra will shut down indefinitely from March 18 as residents and traders under the Matheran Paryatan Vachav Sangharsh Samiti (MPVSS) commenced an indefinite strike against increasing fraudulent activities targeting tourists.
The protestors highlighted issues of fraudulent activities and overcharging by touts and horse operators at Dasturi entry point. Despite multiple complaints, authorities have failed to act, forcing residents to call for a complete closure, Pune Pulse reported.
The residents and traders have demanded that the tourist spot would be completely shut until the administration curbs the fraudulent activities.
The hotel industry, e-rickshaw associations, traders, social organisations have also announced their support.
As per the report, allegations of tourists being misled and overcharged by some horse operators have led to growing dissatisfaction among residents. Frustrated with the inaction of the administration, locals had submitted a formal protest letter to the revenue department, municipal council, forest department, and police on February 27.
However, authorities failed to address their demands, leading the MPVSS to announce the strike from Tuesday, declaring Matheran will remain completely closed until their demands are met. Former municipal council president and MPVSS member Manoj Khedkar stated that the strike would continue until tourist-targeted malpractices cease, Times of India reported.
The tourists visiting Matheran were unaware of the strike and faced difficulties as all establishments remained closed.
“We had no idea about such a strike. All the shops were closed, which forced us to return home immediately. Since vacations have already started and summer is picking up, Mumbaikars find this hill station nearest to their homes, which is why it has become a popular destination. This kind of stir during the peak season will deprive the visitors of spending quality hangout time, away from the city,” Nitin Pagar, a tourist from Ghatkopar, told Times of India.
Meanwhile, a horse operator defended their position, saying horses have always been essential to Matheran and negative social media reviews have contributed to declining tourism.
- Location :
Matheran, India, India