Bhubaneswar: The Cuttack district administration has imposed strict safety restrictions at Gadagadia Ghat for the next 48 hours, citing continued danger from the strong current in the Mahanadi due to flood.
Administration has prohibited devotees from collecting water at Gadagadia Ghat, a key spot for the Kanwariya (Bol Bom) pilgrimage during Shravan. Pilgrims have also been advised to avoid visiting the Dhabaleswar Temple during this period. The restrictions will remain in effect until August 3, officials said.
The district administration has also enforced a complete ban on public entry to all river ghats along the Mahanadi and its tributaries. Activities including bathing, swimming, boating, taking selfies, and visiting barrage areas have been prohibited until further notice. Public movement, gatherings, and crowding at Baliyatra Ground have been restricted as well.
Officials have further banned people from standing on barrages, bridges, or embankments to watch floodwaters, take photographs, or record videos. Access to these areas will be limited to emergency responders and personnel engaged in flood management operations.
In addition, fishermen have been instructed not to venture into the river. Residents of low-lying and flood-prone villages have been advised to shift their livestock to safer, higher ground.
The administration has urged people to cooperate with the restrictions and avoid risking their lives amid the rising water levels.
