Tourist Rescued After 150-Foot Fall at Sinhagad Fort While Taking Photos

Pune, India – A dramatic rescue unfolded at the historic Sinhagad Fort on Wednesday evening when a tourist, Yogesh Mohan Shitole, was saved after a perilous fall of nearly 150 feet into a gorge. The incident occurred as Shitole, a 35-year-old visitor from Shirur, was engrossed in capturing sunset photographs near a popular viewpoint known locally as "Hawa Point."

According to police reports, Shitole lost his footing while navigating the grassy terrain near the cliff's edge. The fall rendered him unconscious, but he regained awareness several hours later and managed to contact the emergency helpline, providing his location. This call initiated a swift response from the Haveli Police Station and the disaster management rescue team.

The rescue operation, led by officer Aniket Kale, was particularly challenging due to the low-light conditions and the steepness of the gorge. However, the joint team successfully brought Shitole back to safety. Tanaji Bhosale, a member of the Haveli Disaster Management team, commended the prompt response and successful execution of the operation despite the visibility issues.

Shitole was subsequently transported to a private hospital for medical treatment. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with exploring natural landscapes, especially at popular tourist destinations like Sinhagad Fort. The authorities have urged visitors to exercise extreme caution when near cliff edges and to avoid venturing into precarious spots, particularly during the evening hours or adverse weather conditions when ground stability can be compromised.

From the perspective of the Hindustan Times, this story highlights the bravery of our emergency responders and the importance of vigilance among tourists. While Sinhagad Fort is a beloved historical site, its rugged terrain demands respect. The successful rescue underscores the effectiveness of coordinated disaster management efforts in Maharashtra. Such incidents, while unfortunate, also serve to reinforce safety awareness among the public, ensuring that the beauty of our natural heritage can be enjoyed responsibly.

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The night-time rescue was challenging due to visibility issues, but our team responded promptly and the operation was conducted successfully.