Sambalpur: SMC’s Bulldozer Continues Anti-Encroachment Drive; 17 Illegal Shops Marked for Demolition in Golbazar

Ongoing Eviction Drive

Sambalpur: The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) has intensified its special drive to remove illegal encroachments. Bulldozers were deployed again today to clear unauthorized structures on government land. Officials are identifying and marking such properties before issuing notices for removal. After a few days of notice, the authorities demolished the marked structures.

Areas Affected

The eviction drive has been ongoing for several months across Sambalpur city, targeting unauthorized constructions on government land. Recently, encroachments were cleared from key areas, including Ainthapali to Remed Road, Dhanupali to Jail Chowk, Jail Chowk to Zilla School Chowk, and Bhutapada to Motijharan Road. The drive extended further to the stretch from Jail Chowk to the Nari Seva Sadan and near Golbazar, continuing the effort to reclaim public spaces.

Shops and Houses Demolished

Near Golbazar, approximately 17 shops built on government land were identified for removal. SMC officials have stated that necessary actions will be taken after bringing the issue to the attention of senior authorities.

Survey and Road Expansion

Simultaneously, a survey was conducted along the road from Hirakud Colony to the DRDA office. Originally 35-40 feet wide, the road is now being expanded to 75 feet as a double-lane road. However, encroachments had significantly narrowed the path, leading to the removal of three houses and seventeen shops. Notices have also been issued to the remaining encroachers, warning them of imminent eviction.

Parking Issues in Golbazar

The Golbazar area faces severe parking issues due to the illegal occupation of spaces meant for public use. Plans are being made to create a dedicated parking area after the eviction process concludes.

Safety Measures During Eviction

A magistrate and the local Tehsildar were present during the eviction to ensure law and order. The SMC Commissioner has confirmed that all illegal encroachments on government land will be cleared.

Encroachments on Sambalpur-Jharsuguda Road

The Sambalpur-Jharsuguda state highway faces significant encroachment, leading to frequent accidents. Key issues include hotels and business establishments constructed on the road, vehicles parked on the road by garage owners, and shops built over drainage systems, all contributing to traffic congestion and safety hazards.

Public Concerns

Local resident Sushant Behera from Majhipali pointed out that several hotels and businesses have encroached on the road, making it narrower and unsafe. This results in frequent accidents as pedestrians and cyclists are forced onto the main road due to the absence of service lanes.

Call for Immediate Action

Although the road was initially planned as a six-lane highway, it was reduced to four lanes. The lack of proper footpaths and service roads poses a significant safety hazard. Residents demand immediate removal of illegal encroachments for safer and smoother traffic flow.