Balangir: Normal life was affected in Tusura of Balangir district on Friday following a 12-hour bandh called by Tusura Nagarika Manch.
The agitators staged blockades and picketed at several places demanding immediate inclusion of Tusura under Rurban Mission.
Roads wore a deserted look as educational institutions, shops and other commercial establishments remained closed during the strike.
Adequate police personnel were deployed at various locations to prevent any untoward incident.
“The Rurban Mission was launched by the Government of India with an aim to transform rural areas into economically, socially and
physically sustainable spaces and also to ensure their overall development. It’s a matter of regret that we have been deprived of the benefits under the scheme,” an agitator said.