Bhubaneswar: What began as a serene year-end outing for hundreds of tourists at the picturesque Duluri Pine Forest in Odisha’s Daringbadi turned into pandemonium on Sunday when a group of visitors allegedly under the influence of alcohol engaged in loud arguments.
According to sources, the dispute quickly escalated into a physical fight between two groups, sending shockwaves through the crowded area. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as families and other visitors fled for safety amid the escalating violence, which lasted for about 30 minutes.
On being informed, police arrived at the spot and had to resort to mild-lathi charge to disperse the unruly crowd after initial attempts to placate the situation proved futile. Several individuals were also detained.
The incident has sparked calls for enhanced security and stricter regulations at tourist destinations during peak seasons to curb such disruptive behavior and ensure visitor safety.
