Bhubaneswar, 11 August (H.S.): Tension prevailed in Niladri Vihar on Tuesday as the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) launched a phased demolition drive against 330 transit houses, triggering protests from residents who demanded relocation and alternative accommodation before the structures are razed.

The demolition drive is being carried out across Niladri Vihar Phases I, II and III. The area has around 890 transit houses, of which 330 have been identified for demolition.

The transit houses were provided under the Buddha Vihar housing project. While several beneficiaries have reportedly been allotted permanent houses, some continue to occupy the transit units. However, a section of residents opposed the demolition, claiming that they are eligible beneficiaries who have not yet received permanent accommodation.

The protesters urged the authorities to complete the relocation process and provide alternative housing to eligible families before proceeding with the demolition.

Anticipating resistance, police were deployed in large numbers to maintain law and order. Three platoons of personnel, including teams from Nandankanan, Chandrasekharpur, Chandaka and Infocity police stations, were deployed in the area.

Women residents, local youths and family members participated in the protests, raising concerns over rehabilitation and relocation arrangements. Officials from the BMC and BDA remained at the site as the demolition continued.

The situation remained tense but under control, with security personnel maintaining a close watch to prevent any untoward incident.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda