Sambalpur: SMC Demolished 7 Shops and Houses in Ainthapali; Homeopathy Doctor Had Illegally Occupied PWD Land for Rental Income
Sambalpur: Authorities in Sambalpur city demolished seven shops and parts of a two-story house in Ainthapali after discovering they were illegally constructed on government land. A homeopathy doctor had encroached on Public Works Department land, using it to build his residence and rent out shops.
Illegal Encroachment and Traffic Issues
The homeopathy doctor had encroached on 10 meters of land, preventing the expansion of a 22-meter-wide main road and 25–30-meter feeder roads, which are crucial for reducing traffic congestion. The site at Ainthapali is a significant commercial hub and connects many important areas in Sambalpur. The illegal occupation caused persistent traffic problems for over 20 years.
Enforcement Action
Sambalpur Municipal Corporation’s (SMC) enforcement team, led by Officer Sushant Sahu and supported by a magistrate and police, carried out the demolition. Police presence ensured no untoward incidents occurred during the operation.
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Officials demolished the shops and the entrance to the two-story house. The authorities gave the doctor several notices over the years to vacate the land, but he ignored them, citing a court stay order. However, he failed to produce valid documents to support his claims, prompting the authorities to take action.
Previous Notices and Resistance
SMC repeatedly issued notices to the encroacher over two decades, but legal delays stalled the eviction. The authorities served a final notice months ago and made announcements via loudspeakers. Shopkeepers vacated their premises, but the doctor resisted and refused to vacate his house, leading to forced demolition.
Traffic Relief Expected
Road expansion on the cleared land is expected to ease the traffic congestion that has plagued Ainthapali for years. Authorities are confident that this action will improve connectivity and facilitate smoother vehicular movement in the area.
