Odisha Govt’s Goa-like ‘beach shacks’ plan in Puri draws flak

Puri: Odisha Government’s Goa-like ‘beach shacks’ plan on Puri-Konark marine drive drew sharp reactions from several organisations in the pilgrim town against the proposal.

Over 60 members of 30 different organisations including newly established ‘Belabhumi Madamukti Abhiyan’ submitted a memorandum to Puri Collector opposing the move by Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC).

A delegation led by Badri Mishra, Chakradhar Mohapatra and Madhusudan Mishra of the social outfit met the collector at Puri Collectorate and demanded to roll back the ‘beach shacks’ plan at sacred beaches in guise of tourism development in Puri district.

Worth mentioning, the OTDC is planning to open counters at beaches on Puri-Konark marine drive offering tourists to enjoy beverages including liquor, along with music.

In this regard, the OTDC has invited online applications for operation of shacks at beaches. The last date of application is scheduled tomorrow.