The Puri coastline claimed two more lives this Monday as two unidentified tourists drowned while bathing. Caught in a powerful rip current, the victims were pulled from the water by lifeguards and rushed to the Puri District Hospital, where doctors tragically declared them dead.
While police and fire departments work to identify the deceased, this latest tragedy has sparked a wave of criticism against the local administration. Despite recurring accidents, critics argue that current safety measures—largely limited to automated public announcements—are woefully inadequate.
Experts are now calling for an urgent overhaul of beach security, demanding the deployment of more lifeguards, specialized training, and modern rescue equipment.
They also emphasize the need for prominent warning boards and a stronger police presence to alert unsuspecting tourists to the sea's hidden dangers. Without these vital upgrades, Puri’s golden sands remain a high-risk zone for visitors.