7 arrested for performing stunts on Hirakud right dyke

Bhubaneswar: Seven persons were arrested on Saturday for their alleged stunt in cars on the right dyke of Hirakud reservoir that leads to Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary.

The dangerous ride also led to the seizure of 2 costly cars, and police are looking for 2 more used in the stunt. Being an enjoyable driveway, the 14-km-long dyke serves as a visitor’s paradise in all seasons. However, it is fraught with risk because of the serpentine road and height of the dyke.


“The arrested were all in their 30s. Most are businessmen owning costly cars. Altogether, 4 cars were used in the stunt on Friday night. We came to know from their post on social media, where they wanted to flaunt their stunt. However, considering the stretch witnesses frequent tourist and official movement, such activities encroaching upon the road can pose a threat to people and the riders as well,” said SDPO (Burla) Baleswar Gidhi.

They were booked for rash and negligent driving in a dangerous manner, obstructing a public way (line of navigation), and causing obstruction in the free flow of traffic, with a case registered under section 281/285/3 (5) of BNS and section 184/201 of the Motor Vehicle Act.

Police said none was arrested during the stunt, but they were traced later by tracking their mobile numbers and social media presence.

Sources said, built in the 1950s, this stone-paved dyke is more than just a dam and road. On 1 side are the Debrigarh mountains, and on the other is the sprawling 700-sq-km reservoir. This attracts people to the place, but there is risk involved, as the height of the dyke is more than 20 ft and it can result in an accident.

“Despite generating awareness and regular patrolling, visitors are misusing the dyke and resorting to reckless driving. Most of the people can be seen taking selfies dangerously while sitting in luxury bikes and cars,” Gidhi added.