Puri, Sept. 24 -- In view of the heavy rainfall forecast, Puri has been placed under a "red zone" alert for the next two days following the formation of a deep depression that has severely disrupted regional weather and marine conditions.

With the sea remaining rough, the district administration has alerted tourists by hoisting red flags and has banned tourists from bathing in the sea. Lifeguards have been deployed in various sectors along the beach.

Assistant Station Officer Ananta Prasad Biswal emphasised the severity of the crisis, noting that conditions are hazardous and expected to deteriorate further.

"Given the current situation, specifically the deep depression, Puri has been designated a 'red zone,' a status expected to remain...