Sambalpur: The 24-day restriction on tourist access to Hirakud Dam, Asia’s longest earthen dam, was lifted on Tuesday.
On May 9, the dam authorities issued a statement restricting the entry of tourists and visitors to the dam premises until further notice due to security concerns stemming from India-Pakistan tensions post Operation Sindoor.
The Sambalpur district administration, in coordination with state and central security agencies, had put in place a high-level security protocol at the dam. Security forces, armed with sophisticated weapons and surveillance tools, were stationed at the dam site for monitoring and swift response. Barricades were also set up at critical entry points, with police deployed to enforce the restriction order.
Sambalpur collector Siddheshwar Baliram Bondar had then said the decision restrict entry of visitors to the dam was taken in the interest of public safety and national security.
