Puri: A massive iron navigation buoy broke free from its anchorage in the sea and drifted ashore at Astaranga beach in Odisha’s Puri district following rough sea conditions triggered by the low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
The buoy, used as a marine navigation aid to guide ships and fishing trawlers along designated sea routes, was reportedly washed ashore after strong waves snapped it from its mooring. The structure is fitted with a beacon light that illuminates during the evening to help vessels navigate safely at sea.
According to local residents, the Marine Fisheries Department had installed several such navigation buoys in the sea years ago. The prevailing adverse weather conditions and high waves are believed to have dislodged the buoy, which has now been partially buried in the sand along the coastline.
The unusual sight has drawn large numbers of locals and tourists to Astaranga beach, where many gathered to witness the giant iron structure washed up on the shore.
Residents have urged the concerned authorities to remove the buoy from the beach and relocate it to a safe location to prevent any potential hazard and restore normal navigation arrangements at sea.
