Major Anti-Encroachment Operation in Bhubaneswar's Industrial Zone
In a significant urban enforcement action, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) executed a comprehensive anti-encroachment drive on Monday. The targeted area included valuable IDCO land and adjacent road sections within the bustling Chandaka industrial area of the Odisha capital.
Peaceful Execution Despite Shopkeeper Protests
Remarkably, the entire eviction operation was completed without requiring police force deployment, even as affected shopkeepers staged strong protests against the demolition activities. Officials confirmed that the drive proceeded smoothly under the direct supervision of the BDA enforcement wing and IDCO staff members, maintaining public order throughout the process.
Scale of Removal: Structures and Commercial Units Cleared
During this extensive clearance operation, authorities systematically removed:
- 18 temporary stalls operating without authorization
- 4 cabins used for commercial purposes
- 10 bamboo sheds serving as makeshift shops
- 1 tin-shed store operating illegally
- 4 advertising signboards placed on public property
- 20 bamboo-shed hotels running along roadside areas
- 1 iron rack obstructing public space
- 1 welding shop operating from a bamboo structure
- Approximately 50 feet of iron fencing encroaching on public land
Official Rationale: Reclaiming Public Land and Easing Traffic
Government officials emphasized that this action represents part of an ongoing initiative to reclaim public land and restore proper traffic flow within the important industrial corridor. The Chandaka area had experienced increasing congestion problems due to unauthorized commercial activities spreading along roadside spaces, creating hazards for both pedestrians and vehicles.
"Repeated official notices were issued earlier to violators, but the encroachments continued unabated," explained a senior official involved in the operation. "Today's enforcement drive was conducted strictly according to the predetermined schedule as part of our commitment to urban planning standards."
Affected Business Owners Voice Livelihood Concerns
Shopkeepers and business operators impacted by the demolition expressed strong opposition to the action, highlighting their dependence on these establishments for daily income and family sustenance. Many appealed to authorities for rehabilitation support or alternative business arrangements that would allow them to continue their livelihoods while complying with urban regulations.
The Bhubaneswar anti-encroachment drive underscores the ongoing tension between urban development priorities and informal economic activities in rapidly growing Indian cities. While authorities focus on reclaiming public spaces and improving infrastructure, affected citizens seek solutions that address both regulatory compliance and economic survival.
