Bhubaneswar, Nov 18: A large-scale eviction drive has begun in Salia Sahi, Bhubaneswar, as the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) move forward with clearing encroachments to make way for the 13-kilometre parallel road connecting Ekamra Kanana to Andharua.

Officials have identified 517 households for demolition in this phase, which is set to continue until November 24. While some areas had already been cleared earlier, authorities confirmed that the remaining stretch must be vacated to ensure the timely completion of this vital road project.

The eviction efforts commenced near Hatiasuni, where a group of residents organised a peaceful sit-in protest to raise concerns over rehabilitation plans. Many families voiced their demand for fair and adequate resettlement options before vacating their homes.

“We will not allow the eviction to proceed unless proper rehabilitation is provided,” one community member stated.

To maintain order and avoid disturbances, five platoons of police personnel have been deployed, along with teams from BMC, BDA, WATCO, and the Electricity Department. Heavy machinery is already in place, and security measures have been intensified to ensure a smooth operation.

Despite the resistance from residents, authorities stress that the eviction is essential for improving urban mobility, alleviating traffic congestion, and advancing the city’s long-term infrastructure development.

Notably, 900 metres of Salia Sahi lie within the alignment of the new parallel road. Previously, homes located within 200 metres of the proposed road had been cleared. The remaining 700 metres, which includes the 517 structures currently marked for demolition, will be cleared under strict supervision.