Dist Collector orders to roll out slot-booking at tourist spots

New system will require visitors to reserve time slots in advance via a mobile application

- Nadeem Inamdar

In response to mounting safety risks and environmental concerns caused by surging monsoon tourism, the Pune district administration will implement a slot-booking system at 25 popular tourist spots. District collector Jitendra Dudi announced that the initiative aims to curb overcrowding, reduce ecological damage, and prevent accidents, particularly during weekends and holidays.

The new system will require tourists to reserve time slots in advance via a mobile application currently being developed by the Forest Department, which is serving as the nodal agency. A budget of ₹50 crore, sanctioned by the district planning committee, has been allocated for the digital rollout and supporting infrastructure.

“We've identified 23 to 25 high-footfall locations that attract large crowds during the monsoon and festive seasons. Slot-booking will help regulate tourist entry, protect sensitive ecosystems, and support better tourism management for local communities,” said Dudi.