Lighthouses At Mandvi, Rawalpir, And Other Sites Closed To Tourists Amid National Security Concerns

Mandvi: Amid heightened national security concerns, tourist access to the popular coastal lighthouses at Mandvi and Rawalpir Dada in Gujarat’s Kutch district has been suspended. The move comes following directives from the Union Ministry of Shipping, with intensified security deployed across the region.

The restrictions affect at least 10 lighthouse zones, including Koteshwar, Harudi, Jakhau, Vanki, Chhachi, Bhadreshwar, Kandla, Navinal, Mandvi, and Rawalpir. Officials said security forces have been stationed at these locations, and public entry has been prohibited until further notice.

Mandvi and Rawalpir Dada lighthouses had emerged as key attractions in the state’s coastal tourism efforts, drawing over 20,000 visitors in recent months—13,000 at Mandvi and 7,000 at Rawalpir. However, with the new restrictions in place, tourists will be unable to visit these viewpoints during the ongoing vacation period.

In a related development, the Indian Air Force has taken control of the Kathda airstrip in Mandvi taluka, deploying satellite and surveillance equipment to secure the area. Access to Mandvi Port has also been restricted for civilians.

Authorities have not specified the duration of the restrictions but confirmed that they are part of precautionary measures in response to recent national security alerts.