The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) conducted a large-scale eviction drive in Shampur mouza under Bharatpur police limits, demolishing illegal structures and reclaiming nearly 8 acres of government land.

Large-Scale Demolition Operation

The eviction drive was carried out under the direction of BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana and led by Joint Commissioner Ranjan Kumar Jena. Six JCB machines were deployed during the operation.

On the first day alone, 187 houses were demolished, including 31 under-construction buildings. Officials said the move is part of ongoing efforts to remove encroachments and promote planned urban development in Bhubaneswar.

Heavy Police Deployment Ensures Peaceful Operation

To maintain law and order, around 10 platoons of police force along with 50 officers were stationed at the site. Authorities confirmed that the eviction drive was carried out peacefully without any major untoward incidents.

Prior Notices Issued to Encroachers

Before initiating the demolition, the BDA had issued multiple notices and made announcements through loudspeakers, urging residents to vacate the encroached land voluntarily. Officials reiterated that the action was taken only after following due legal procedures.

Appeal for Voluntary Compliance

BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana stated that the eviction drive will continue until all illegal encroachments are cleared. He also appealed to people occupying government land unlawfully to vacate on their own and cooperate with development initiatives.

Recovery of LPG Cylinders

During the drive, officials recovered 72 LPG cylinders, including 21 small ones, from an encroached house. These were later handed over to the Civil Supplies Department for further action.

Previous FIR Against Land Mafia

It may be recalled that in December 2023, the BDA had filed an FIR with the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), alleging illegal encroachment and sale of portions of around 68 acres of government land by land mafias in the area.