Sambalpur: SDA Market Complex Demolished After 7 Years of Being Declared Unsafe; 18 Shops Cleared on Day One
Sambalpur: The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) has finally demolished the 30-year-old SDA market complex in Mudipada, which had been declared unsafe by the public works department (PWD) back in 2017. Despite being labeled hazardous for years, the demolition was delayed until Monday, following directives from the SDA Vice Chairman.
A team led by Enforcement Officer Sushant Sahu began demolition at 10:30 AM, continuing until 5:30 PM, dismantling 18 shops on the first day.
Background of the Unsafe Complex
This market complex, built on a 1.15-acre plot nearly 30 years ago, originally housed 48 shops. However, due to a lack of maintenance, it became unusable over time. Most of the shops were abandoned, leaving the complex to deteriorate into a “haunted building.”
Online Sambalpur Is Now On WhatsApp!
Join us for the latest news updates delivered directly to your WhatsApp.
Subscribe Us On YouTube!
Join us for the latest news updates and video content delivered directly to you.
The derelict structure turned into a haven for anti-social groups, who allegedly used it for planning criminal activities. The PWD had declared the complex unsafe seven years ago, warning shopkeepers to operate at their own risk.
Preparations for Demolition
Until recently, four shops were still operational. The SDA issued notices to these shopkeepers, asking them to vacate the premises. The corporation stopped collecting rent to encourage them to move out. On the day of demolition, one shopkeeper was still resisting but eventually agreed to vacate after discussions with officials.
The shops were so weak that they crumbled easily under the bulldozer’s impact.
Future Plans for the Site
The demolition will continue to remove the remaining shops by Tuesday. The SDA plans to construct a commercial establishment on the site, though final decisions are still pending.
This move marks a significant step in improving safety and promoting development in the area.
