Sambalpur: SMC Takes Action; Encroachments from Church Chowk to Fatak Fandi to be Cleared, Road Widening Planned

Sambalpur: Roads in Sambalpur Municipal Corporation have become increasingly narrow as a result of illegal encroachments. Many shops have expanded onto the roads, and their permanent structures, such as signboards and stands, are obstructing traffic. Despite earlier efforts to clear these encroachments, illegal constructions and street vendors continue to emerge, resulting in frequent accidents.

Encroachment Removal Begins

The eviction process was put on hold for a while due to elections, but it resumed on Tuesday with the removal of illegal structures from Church Chowk to Fatak Fandi. All businesses and unauthorized structures that have encroached on the roads in this area have been ordered to be removed.

Issues at Church Chowk

At Church Chowk, an educational institution’s entrance has extended onto the road, and iron bars and boards have been installed on the pavement. Enforcement Officer Sushant Kumar Sahu and his team inspected the site and issued strict orders for their removal. An unused police cabin near GM University has become a hotspot for anti-social behavior. The municipal authorities have asked the police department to remove the cabin.

Encroachments Affecting the University

Although murals have been painted on the university walls to beautify the area, some vendors have set up permanent stalls in front of the walls, spoiling the look. The enforcement team has warned these vendors to clear the area.

Strict Deadline for Removal

From Church Chowk to Fatak Fandi, all shops on the left side of the road have been ordered to demolish illegal structures. The overbridge area also contains illegal construction, such as asbestos roofs, which must be removed within 24 hours. If they do not comply, the forced eviction process will begin tomorrow.

Encroachments in Budharaja

The enforcement team has also issued notices to Budharaja shop owners to dismantle any structures encroaching on the road immediately. The department has announced that in the coming days, encroachment removal will be extended to Mudipada Chhak and Thakurpada Road, resulting in wider roads.

Traffic Problems at Church Chowk

It is important to note that six roads intersect at Church Chowk, causing significant traffic congestion. To address this, a proposal was made last November to turn the area into a roundabout. The Public Works Department had approved the plan, which called for a 12-meter central roundabout surrounded by a 7 to 10-meter rotary. However, land acquisition issues in Church Chowk have slowed the project, and residents are now demanding an immediate resolution to the problem.