Sambalpur: Sambalpur During the Bharat Bandh – Everything That Happened from Morning to Night
Sambalpur: The city saw widespread picketing, which resulted in a full shutdown of all government offices and markets. The streets were deserted, with shops and public places remaining closed. Meanwhile, a tense atmosphere persisted in some areas as hundreds of buses became stuck in Ainthapali, leaving passengers frustrated and anxious.
Impact on Transportation
The impact of the bandh was felt early in the day when buses and trains came to a halt. Protests caused more than an hour’s delay in the Sambalpur-Puri and Sambalpur-Rayagada Intercity Express trains. National highways were deserted, and major city streets were barricaded, making travel impossible. Picketing at various locations, including Khetrarajpur, Sambalpur Junction, and other critical areas, halted vehicle movement, resulting in significant disruption.
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Widespread Shutdown in the City
The All India SC/ST Coordination Committee called for a bandh to demand the protection of Scheduled Castes and Tribes. People throughout Sambalpur widely attended the protest. Protesters closed markets, banks, post offices, and all government offices, effectively paralyzing the city’s daily activities. Picketing and demonstrations took place throughout the day in the main areas of Khetarajpur, Lakshmi Talkies Chowk, Shantinagar, and Mudipada. There were minor scuffles and tensions in some areas, but no major incidents occurred. People complained about the disruption of essential services. Protesters halted water and medicine delivery, along with other crucial services.
Passenger Woes
The bandh forced authorities to suspend bus services, stranding passengers at the Ainthapali Bus Terminal and the government bus stand. With no alternative transportation available, many people had to stay put. The closure of shops left them frustrated, lacking food and basic necessities. The city’s SDPO confirmed that the bandh was peaceful and that no major incidents or arrests occurred.