Navi Mumbai: The indefinite strike initiated by residents and traders under the Matheran Paryatan Vachav Sangharsh Samiti (MPVSS) commenced on Tuesday. Visitors arriving by mini train and private vehicles faced difficulties as all establishments remained closed, prompting authorities to schedule a stakeholder meeting for Wednesday. The protesters highlighted issues of fraudulent activities and overcharging by touts and horse operators at Kasturi Naka, the main entry point to the tourist spot near Mumbai.
“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,” said Nitin Pagar from Ghatkopar.
The protesters expressed concern over Matheran’s declining reputation and tourism business. Former municipal council president and MPVSS member Manoj Khedkar stated that the strike would continue until tourist-targeted malpractices cease. He noted that Matheran, a traditional cool-air destination, attracts thousands of visitors yearly.
Sunil Shinde, secretary of Shramik Rickshaw Sanghatana, said, “Tourists have encountered fraudulent practices and exploitation. Horse operators are misleading the visitors saying rickshaws are only for locals, not for tourists. E-rickshaws are charging just Rs 35 per person, whereas one has to pay a hefty amount for a horse ride. There are 20 e-rickshaws operating here at the hills. Elderly people find comfort in e-rickshaws against travelling on horses. Our fight is against the loot meted by horse operators.”
A horse operator defended their position, stating horses have always been essential to Matheran. Negative social media reviews have contributed to declining tourism. MPVSS seeks local administrative action to resolve these issues. Matheran council chief officer Rahul Ingale confirmed receiving complaints and scheduled a Wednesday meeting with various govt departments and protesters.
“At the base of Matheran ghat, taxi organisations charge Rs 500 from tourists arriving with permits. Tourists refusing payment are forced to disembark. Local taxis then compel these tourists to use their services to reach Matheran. At Dasturi Naka, tourists face harassment from horsemen, porters and agents. They receive misleading information, face overcharging, and unauthorised fee collection. Non-paying tourists experience tyre deflation and luggage mishandling. These incidents damage Matheran’s reputation,” said Khedkar.
