Sambalpur: Mudipada-GM University Road to be Expanded; Two Municipal Department Market Complexes to be Demolished for Road Expansion

Road Widening Project

Sambalpur: The road from Mudipada Chowk to the GM University bridge in Sambalpur will be expanded. To make space for this, the municipal corporation will demolish two market complexes located near the Sadar Hospital and the water tank area.

Shop Removals Planned

Authorities have identified the land for the expansion with the help of the Tehsildar and the municipal enforcement team (SMC). Within two days, 24 shops and roadside stalls near the Sadar Hospital will be removed. SMC enforcement officer Sushant Sahu confirmed this information.

Purpose Behind the Expansion

The Public Works Department (PWD) is planning this expansion to ease traffic congestion, especially in front of the Sadar Hospital and Thelkopada area, where heavy traffic jams are common. The plan includes converting the road into a double-lane with a median for smooth traffic flow.

Market Complex Demolition

The market complexes, built during the tenures of former Congress Mayor Anand Jena and BJP Mayor Girish Patel, house 34 shops. Despite shopkeepers paying regular taxes to the SMC, authorities believe the complexes need to be removed to complete the project.

Concerns from Local Residents

Some local residents argue that the construction of market complexes near the hospital and on the road reflects poor planning by the previous administration. They worry that the demolition will not only disrupt businesses but also waste the significant funds already spent on construction.

Next Steps and Future Plans

Authorities have not yet finalized the demolition decision but plan to clear the shops and stalls on the road and near the drain. Additionally, there are plans to remove unauthorized structures, including public toilets near Thelakopada. Demolition drives are also scheduled for the Hirakud Colony soon.

This project aims to improve traffic flow and ensure better infrastructure for the city, though local concerns about business disruption and financial losses remain.