Sambalpur: Security Tightened at Hirakud Dam; Restrictions Imposed on Tourist Visits, Armed Personnel Deployed with Advanced Weapons

Sambalpur: Authorities have imposed strict restrictions on tourist entry to Hirakud Dam. Both local and foreign tourists are currently not allowed to visit the site.

High Alert Due to National Security Concerns

Following rising tensions and war-like conditions between India and Pakistan, the government has issued a high alert across sensitive areas in Odisha starting Thursday evening. Hirakud Dam, a key national asset, is among these high-risk zones.

Deployment of Armed Forces

In response, security has been tightened on both Burla and Hirakud sides of the dam. Authorities have deployed a unit of armed forces, equipped with modern weapons, to guard the area. Additionally, a special team from the Centre is monitoring all security measures. However, officials have not revealed the names of the weapons due to national security concerns.

Security Beyond Regular Forces

Normally, Odisha Industrial Security Force (OISF) and local police manage dam security. This includes about 100 personnel, assistant commandants, havildars, and constables under a commandant’s leadership. These personnel are usually unarmed, which is why the government has brought in a separate armed unit for the current situation.

Restricted Access to Nehru Minar

Authorities have completely closed access to Nehru Minar, a major tourist attraction on the right dyke of the dam. Security personnel are stopping all visitors nearly 200 meters before the dam. Only employees with valid passes such as dam staff and power house officials are allowed entry after strict checks.

Why the Measures Are Crucial

Hirakud is one of the longest river dams in the world, stretching 25.8 km. If any mishap occurs here, over 10 districts in Odisha could be severely affected. The dam has 64 sluice gates and 34 crest gates, making it a high-risk but critical structure.