A peaceful drive, a sudden catastrophe

On a calm Thursday morning, Snehal and her family were journeying from Pune to Mangaon in their Volkswagen Virtus. The route through Tamhini Ghat, known for its scenic beauty, also carries hidden risk. Between 9:30 am and 10:00 am, as they passed near Kondithar village, a rock weighing around two kilograms plummeted from the hill onto their car’s closed sunroof.   Two smaller rocks followed quickly. One of them struck Snehal, who was in the front passenger seat, on the head.

The fatal impact and aftermath

The sheer force of the rock’s fall broke through the sunroof, leaving no time for reaction. Despite being rushed to hospital by her husband, who kept driving for several kilometres in shock, Snehal succumbed to her injuries.   The other family members, her husband, son and mother-in-law, seated in the back, escaped unhurt.

Dangerous terrain, silent hazard

Tamhini Ghat is a sought-after getaway for its lush greenery, but it has a darker side. The steep slopes, loose rocks and heavy rainfall during monsoon make this stretch prone to rockfalls and landslides. Local authorities say such incidents, though rare, are not unprecedented.   Officials have now initiated a detailed safety audit of the ghat, seeking to pinpoint vulnerable zones and warn motorists.

Lessons and warnings for travellers

This tragic event underscores the unpredictability of nature and the importance of caution. While visiting scenic routes, travellers should remain alert to road conditions—especially in hilly terrain. As police warned, even closed sunroofs can’t always shield occupants from falling debris.

This incident is a sobering reminder that beauty in nature often comes with hidden peril. For Snehal’s family and for everyone who uses mountain roads, the call is clear: respect the terrain, heed the risks—and never forget that safety often depends on awareness and preparedness.