Major eviction drive near Master Canteen Square

Bhubaneswar, Nov 11: In a major eviction process, jointly carried out today by the Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL), Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) and Commissionerate Police, area near the city railway station was made free from encroachments to enable smooth implementation of the ongoing Smart Janpath project. Apart for ensuring a better and smooth traffic circulation as an important road connecting the Master Canteen Junction with the Bhubaneswar Railway Station, this drive would also make a way for the public realm (space) for the Smart Janpath Project by providing cycling track, pedestrian lighting, buffer zone for ornamental plantation and sitting arrangements for the citizens. During the eviction drive 23 polythene and bamboo shed shops, 28 fast food counters on trolleys and 32 vending/mobile shops selling fruits and other items were demolished despite heavy opposition from the vendors. During the process two enforcement squads from of BDA, two squads of BMC, one from Smart City, police force led by IIC of Kharvel Nagar police station participated. It can be mentioned here that the eviction process was stalled for various reasons and occasions at four occasions in the past. However, with the Managing Director and CEO of Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited emphasizing a more focused and decisive approach on the Smart Janpath Project, things have started moving faster. Recently, the encroached portions in front of Hotel Jajati and near Tarini temple were razed.