If you were planning a trip to Matheran this summer, you may have to change your plans. The popular hill station in Maharashtra is closed indefinitely as locals protest against tourist scams. Since March 18, hotels, shops, and transport services have stopped, causing trouble for visitors.
The protest, organized by the Matheran Paryatan Vachav Sangharsh Samiti (MPVSS), is due to ongoing issues at the Dasturi entry point. Locals say touts and some horse operators have been overcharging and misleading tourists. Despite several complaints, no action was taken, leaving them with no choice but to protest.
Residents, hotel owners, traders, e-rickshaw groups, and social organizations are supporting the strike, vowing to keep Matheran closed until strict action is taken against these issues. The main reason for the protest is the lack of response from authorities, despite filing complaints with the revenue department, municipal council, forest department, and police on February 27.
For travellers who arrived unaware of the protest, the experience was anything but pleasant. “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 media
What’s Next for Matheran?
Former municipal council president and MPVSS member Manoj Khedkar has stated that the strike will continue until authorities take action against the scams. On the other hand, horse operators argue that Matheran’s heritage and economy rely on them and blame negative social media reviews for the drop in tourism. As the situation remains unresolved, travelers are left wondering when Matheran will reopen. Until then, it might be time to reconsider weekend getaway plans.