Bhubaneswar, Jan 3: With frequent incidents of stranding of rafts vessels and passengers on board in the mid-Chilika Lake, the Odisha government all set for working out on ‘No life-jackets-No ferry services’ in the waterbody.
Following a death reported in the lake, the Puri district administration on Saturday resolved to allow ferry services in the lake with stricter transport and security norms.
In view of safety & security of the visitors, the ferry services operators have been asked to strictly follow safety & security guidelines. With the new norms, no rafts, boats, passenger ferries, motorboats, cargo vessels,floating vessels and other floating will enter the waterbody without adequate security
As per the revised guidelines, wearing life jackets has been made compulsory for all passengers travelling on ferries. Authorities have also directed to sit near the centre of the vessels.
In addition, passengers travelling with light & heavy vehicles have been instructed to remain inside their vehicles, with seatbelts fastened.
District Officials said the revised rules will be enforced strictly at all ferry ghats across the lake.
Local administration and police have been directed to monitor at ferry ghats, while Block Development Officers have been asked to make public announcements through loudspeakers.
