Illegal Liquor Sales Cloud Festive Spirit at Balasore’s Udaypur Beach

Udaypur Beach in Balasore district, once celebrated for its pristine sands and casuarina groves, is facing renewed scrutiny as illegal liquor sales thrive ahead of New Year celebrations.

A recent video circulating on social media shows makeshift stalls openly vending alcohol under festive banners, drawing large crowds despite official prohibitions on alcohol consumption and parking in the beach area.

Observers have likened the atmosphere to a “Goa-style open bar hub,” raising concerns about public safety and the beach’s reputation as a tourist destination.

Local residents have repeatedly voiced alarm over the issue, pointing to months of unchecked illicit trade that has fueled anti-social behaviour, littering, and disturbances.

Authorities have conducted raids in the past, including seizures of foreign liquor, but enforcement remains inconsistent.

The Odisha government has reiterated its commitment to cracking down on illegal alcohol sales statewide, yet incidents like this highlight persistent gaps in regulation at popular tourist spots.

With Udaypur Beach’s proximity to the Subarnarekha River mouth and its popularity as a weekend getaway, the stakes are high for ensuring that celebrations do not compromise safety or the environment.