Sambalpur: Hirakud Dam Security Breach by Officials; Posing for Photos in Operation Gallery
Sambalpur: In a significant breach of security protocols, Hirakud Dam officials allowed their families access to the highly restricted Operation Gallery. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, particularly because it occurred during the first floodwater release, and media access was denied. The wife of the Additional Chief Engineer, as well as other employees’ families, defied strict security measures by climbing cranes and posing for photos. These photos and videos have since gone viral, raising serious questions about the dam’s security.
Viral Drone Video by Blogger
To add to the controversy, a local blogger filmed and posted drone footage of the dam, highlighting the security flaw. The viral video has sparked calls for an investigation into how a drone was permitted to fly in the restricted zone. Authorities are now under pressure to take strict action against those responsible for the breach.
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Officials’ Response
Caught up in the controversy, Additional Chief Engineer Hemant Pandey defended his actions, claiming that he had brought his wife to the dam because he was ill. Despite this explanation, the incident has raised concerns about the enforcement of security protocols, as well as the preferential treatment of officials’ families.
Public Outcry and Demand for Action
The security breach has sparked widespread public outrage, particularly given the tight restrictions imposed on the media and the general public. Observers want the authorities to enforce the rules uniformly and take action against everyone involved, including high-ranking officials. The incident has also sparked debates about Hirakud Dam’s overall security arrangements, with calls for stricter measures to prevent future breaches.
