Intellectuals and tourism enthusiasts in the Konark region have voiced serious concerns over the safety of tourists and the potential rise in anti-social activities at the world-renowned Konark Sun Temple and the historic Chandrabhaga Beach, following the prolonged malfunction of 52 newly installed CCTV cameras.
The cameras, installed by the Konark Notified Area Council (NAC) through a local agency at a cost of approximately Rs 40 lakh, were intended to enhance security at sensitive locations. Aimed at safeguarding thousands of daily visitors from across the globe and curbing incidents like theft, robbery, and other criminal acts, the surveillance system has failed to deliver since its deployment over two months ago. Reports indicate that the low-quality equipment has rendered the cameras inoperative, defeating the very purpose for which they were set up.
Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the picturesque Chandrabhaga Beach draw hordes of tourists every day. Visitors often explore the temple premises before heading to the beach for darshan and rituals at the Sun Deity and Surya Narayana shrines. However, with the CCTVs lying dormant, locals and travellers alike fear an escalation in anti-social behaviour, including rash driving by unruly elements and opportunistic crimes.
The situation is exacerbated by irregular police patrolling from the Konark Police Station and Chandrabhaga Marine Police Station, fueling public discourse on the growing impunity of miscreants. “The absence of functional surveillance has created a vulnerability that endangers lives and deters tourism,” said a senior citizen and local activist, echoing sentiments shared by social workers, aware citizens, intellectuals, tourism lovers, and residents.
In a collective appeal, representatives from the Konark area’s civil society, including senior citizens and tourism stakeholders, have urged Odisha Chief Minister, the relevant departmental ministers, the Director General of Police, Puri SP, and the Puri District Collector to intervene immediately. They demand swift repairs or replacements to restore the cameras’ functionality, ensuring a secure environment for visitors and upholding the sanctity of these iconic sites.
As the peak tourist season approaches, the call for action grows louder, with hopes that authorities will prioritise this lapse to prevent any untoward incidents at these cultural treasures.
