Uproar over dangerous stunts in Odisha’s Puri sea; video goes viral

A major controversy has erupted after visuals of dangerous water stunts at Puri beach during Holi festivities went viral on social media. The video shows three motorised country boats performing risky manoeuvres nearly 200 metres away from the shore, raising serious safety concerns, sources said on Thursday.

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Several youths were seen dancing on the boats and diving directly into the sea waves. Eyewitnesses claimed that each boat was carrying more than 10 people, including some women, far exceeding safety limits. Shockingly, none of them was wearing life jackets, nor was any lifeguard present.

The incident has triggered widespread outrage, with questions being raised about how such activities were allowed despite strict coastal safety norms. Local sources suggest the boats may belong to the Penthakata fishing area, and such acts are usually carried out during festivals like Holi and Pongal. However, police officials have not yet confirmed the identities of those involved.

Puri district administration has launched a detailed inquiry and assured strict action once the responsibility is fixed. Fire services officials and lifeguards, who usually maintain strict vigilance over safe sea bathing, have also taken note of the incident.

Authorities clarified that licensed speed boats operated by private agencies are permitted for tourists under stringent rules, including mandatory life jackets, limited passenger capacity, and lifeguard presence.
The District Collector Dibya Jyoti Parida has stated that a detailed investigation is underway and firm action will follow against those violating safety regulations.

“Allegations have been made that some people had entered the sea on boats without any lifejackets or appropriate precautionary measures. I have ordered for an inquiry into the incident. Nothing untoward has occurred. We will take strong action against those found guilty of boating in the sea,” Collector Parida asserted.