The eviction drive against alleged encroachments on government land resumed on Wednesday at Kalarahanga in the Patia area of Bhubaneswar amid tight security arrangements and continued resistance from local residents.

The joint eviction operation, being carried out by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the General Administration (GA) Department, had begun on Tuesday to clear alleged illegal constructions built on government land.

Officials resumed demolition activities early in the day using bulldozers and earthmovers to remove remaining houses and commercial establishments from the encroached area. More than 50 houses and shops will be demolished during the eviction drive. 

Security personnel were deployed in large numbers to prevent any untoward incident as tension continued to prevail in the locality. Several affected residents again staged protests, alleging inadequate rehabilitation measures and lack of proper communication from authorities before the eviction.

Many residents claimed that although notices had been issued around a month ago, several families did not receive official notice regarding the demolition. Some protesters sat on the roadside demanding compensation and rehabilitation before further eviction measures are carried out.

“I did not receive any notice regarding the eviction. They suddenly came and demolished my shop. On what basis, they are demolishing my shop? I have been running my cosmetics shop here since last 10 years,” said a shopkeeper owner.

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During Tuesday’s protest, some demonstrators had allegedly opposed the drive with sharp weapons, including sickles and knives, prompting heightened security deployment on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, allegations have also surfaced regarding the illegal sale of government land in the area. Officials said the matter would be examined by the concerned department.