Gopalpur shame! How safe are Odisha's beaches? A reality check

Odisha, celebrated for its picturesque beaches, is currently under intense scrutiny following the gang-rape incident at Gopalpur that has shaken tourists' confidence. Questions are being raised over the effectiveness of the safety protocols in place at popular tourist spots along the state's coastline.

The incident at Gopalpur has prompted concerns about how well local police and administrative services can manage potential threats on the beaches. These concerns are not isolated to one area. 

Security at Puri beach

During a reality check by OTV,  some tourists were found bathing at Puri beach and making fun. Other tourists were seen enjoying the seaside by walking along the beach. Some others were seen relaxing.

In the Holy city, known as the hub of tourist activity, police and lifeguards are consistently patrolling along the seaside to maintain a secure environment, responding to heightened awareness around safety issues.

"We are feeling fully safe and secure at Puri beach. Many tourists are roaming here and we don't have any problems," said a tourist from outside the state in Puri.

"We are enjoying here up to the hilt and fully safe here," said another tourist in Puri.

Meanwhile, Puri SP said that police are aware even at night to prevent any kind of untoward incidents along the beach. Several tourists have expressed that they feel safe at the beach.

"Puri beach area has been divided into different zones, and police personnel from two stations are being deployed there for the safety and security of the tourists. Our patrolling teams are remaining fully alert all the time, and we are responding to the complaints of the tourists immediately," said Puri SP Vinit Agrawal. 

Tourists express dissatisfaction at Chandipur beach

In contrast, at Chandipur beach in Balasore district, tourists have expressed dissatisfaction. Despite the presence of CCTV surveillance, the noticeable absence of police patrols has left visitors worried.

"We are feeling scared here due to the absence of police patrolling. We don't have any facilities here, no lodge our complaints in case any accident happens," said Padmabati Jena, a tourist.

"Anti-social groups are active everywhere these days. Hence, a lady tourist can't feel secure here. A police outpost should be set up here, and there should be regular patrolling in the area for the safety and security of the tourists along the beach," said Suryamani Jena, another tourist. 

Safety concerns at other beaches

Elsewhere along the coast, beaches such as Udaypur, Talasari, and Gadara face challenges due to a lack of adequate security personnel. These popular destinations witness up to 50,000 visitors daily, but this popularity isn't matched by sufficient security resources.

Must Read: Odisha govt to revamp Gopalpur beach with Rs 30 crore plan, improve illumination and safety amid outrage

Local administration attempts to maintain safety standards, yet resource constraints continue to pose significant challenges. 

"Families are not feeling safe and secure while coming to these beaches. The administration should take proper measures to enhance the security of the tourists here," said a tourist.

The Gopalpur incident has led to increasing demands from tourists for improved security measures, highlighting the urgent need for solutions across Odisha's beaches.