Petition Against Restrictions on Puri Seashore Access

Introduction

The Puri seashore is not the ancestral property of any individual, company, or institution. It belongs to the entire human community. Every pilgrim, regardless of origin, has the right to move freely along this sacred coastline without obstruction. During the annual Rath Yatra, millions of devotees exercise this right.

Background

During the previous Biju Janata Dal administration, barriers were erected along the coast by a private organization, restricting public access. This action created significant inconvenience for pilgrims and residents alike. As a result, individuals traveling from Digbareni Khunti to Chakratirtha are compelled to either hire auto-rickshaws or walk long distances, often under the scorching sun or heavy rains.

Impact

Restriction of free movement along a public and cultural heritage site.
Financial burden on pilgrims forced to hire transport.
Physical hardship due to long walks in adverse weather conditions.
Erosion of collective rights over a shared natural and cultural resource.

Appeal

We, the undersigned, strongly oppose these restrictions and call for:

Immediate removal of barriers along the Puri seashore.
Restoration of unhindered public access to the coastline.
Protection of the seashore as a collective heritage of humanity.

Call to Action

We urge all concerned citizens and devotees to raise their voices against this injustice. By signing this petition, you support the restoration of free and fair access to the Puri seashore.

 
Sign this petition to safeguard the rights of pilgrims and protect our shared heritage.

 

Beaches are nature's gift to all. They are not the private property of any entity or individual. Yet, unnecessary restrictions have been placed on people's movement at Puri Sea Beach in Odisha, depriving locals and tourists alike from enjoying this beautiful stretch of coastline.

The previous Navin-Pandian government sold out our beautiful beach to a private organization, thereby denying locals and tourists the freedom to walk along the shoreline from Digabareni Square to Chakratirtha.

In the name of the so-called “Blue Flag Beach,” they erected walls and barriers on the beach, restricting smooth movement for everyone. Tourists and residents are now forced to either hire autorickshaws or walk along the busy road to travel between Swargadwar and Chakratirtha. This has caused unnecessary expense and great hardship, especially during the scorching summer months.

This is nothing but an attempt to commercialize our beloved sea beach for the profit of a few private entities.

Puri Beach is one of the most iconic and beloved beaches in India. Its serene sands and magnificent waves attract countless visitors every year, driving significant tourism revenue for the region. For residents, it is not merely a tourist destination, but a part of everyday life—a place where families gather, children play, and individuals find solace.

The recent restrictions imposed on the movement at the beach is causing inconvenience and dissatisfaction among both tourists and local communities. Many of these restrictions lack transparency and seem arbitrary, with no clear rationale given for their enforcement. This situation heavily impacts the socio-economic fabric of Puri, as many local vendors, artisans, and businesses rely on beach visitors to make a living.

It's crucial to recognize that public spaces like beaches belong to everyone. Instead of imposing unwarranted restrictions, efforts should be made to facilitate and promote access to these spaces. Measures could be taken to ensure cleanliness, safety, and environmental conservation without hindering people's freedom to enjoy the beach.

Odisha's government authorities need to acknowledge the negative impact these restrictions have on the community’s livelihood and the visitor's experience. Removing these limitations will enhance the vibrancy and inclusivity of Puri Beach, ensuring it remains a welcoming place for all.

Join us in urging the Odisha government to lift these unnecessary restrictions and restore the freedom to enjoy Puri Sea Beach as it was meant to be—open and accessible to everyone. Please sign this petition and support the movement for unrestricted access to our beach.