Cyclone Dana: Tourists start leaving Puri, face problem as travel agencies demand exorbitant fare

As Cyclone Dana is approaching Odisha coast, tourists have started leaving Puri as per the directions of the state government. Meanwhile, taking advantage of the situation, some travel agents are reportedly charging exorbitant fare from them.

Earlier a day before, the administration had requested the tourists from outside to leave Puri in view of the cyclone. Moreover, devotees have also been asked not to visit Puri on October 24-25.

"As per the instructions of the local administration, we are leaving. But the travel agencies are now demanding excess fare which is not acceptable. They are taking advantage of the crisis situation," rued a tourist.

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"Locals of this pious land of Lord Jagannath should not be such inhumane when a crisis situation is knocking on the door. I haven't seen such behaviour among people of any religious place in the country," said another disappointed tourist.

As per reports, the speed of the tidal wave in Puri sea has increased. The life guards are making people aware to be away from the sea by playing warning sirens.

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“Lifeguards have been kept alert at many places near Puri sea beach. We are making people aware to leave the sea shore in view of the impending cyclone. The climate has started changing and the speed of the sea tides have also increased. The wind speed is also increasing. People are gradually becoming aware about the situation. We will put up red flags in the sea shore at around 12 pm,” said a lifeguard in Puri.

“Now the sea is witnessing huge tides. Lifeguards have warned us not to take a bath in the sea anymore. We are now leaving the shore. Everybody should be aware and obey the warnings of the lifeguards. Otherwise, our lives will be in danger,” said a tourist in Puri.

Odisha government has been taking all measures to tackle any kinds of eventualities arising out of the natural calamity. Meanwhile, the well marked low pressure area over the east-central Bay of Bengal moved west-northwestwards, concentrated into a depression on Tuesday morning, informed the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

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