Sambalpur: Tourist Exploitation at Hirakud; Local Youth Demand Large Sums of Money Under Pretext of Providing Empty Spots for Picnics
Rising Tourist Numbers at Hirakud Reservoir
Sambalpur: Hirakud Reservoir has become a hotspot for tourists, attracting thousands daily for picnics. However, this increased footfall has led to exploitation by local youth, who demand hefty sums of money in exchange for providing picnic spots. They initially occupy vacant areas and then charge tourists to use these spaces.
Tactics of Exploitation
Tourists visiting the Right Dyke area, from Jhankarani to Zero Point, face harassment. A group of youths arrives early in the morning to occupy prime picnic spots. When tourists arrive, these youths demand money to vacate the area, claiming they had reserved it. They charge based on group size, demanding Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,000 for groups of over 100 people and Rs. 500 for smaller groups.
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Pressure on Late Arrivals
Tourists arriving late are left with no option but to pay. Even when tourists select and clean their spots independently, these youths intervene, claiming ownership and insisting on payments. Such practices have created dissatisfaction and inconvenience for visitors.
Administrative Action Needed
The unchecked activities of these youths are tarnishing the reservoir’s reputation. Tourists feel harassed and coerced into paying unjustified amounts. If authorities do not intervene, such illegal activities may escalate, further damaging the area’s appeal and fairness.
Immediate administrative measures are necessary to curb this exploitation and ensure a positive experience for tourists visiting Hirakud Reservoir.
