Sambalpur: Normal life was paralysed at Burla in Odisha’s Sambalpur district on Friday as residents of the town observed a dawn-to-dush shutdown demanding land rights and steps against illegal encroachment.
Shops, business establishments and markets remained shut during the 12-hour bandh called by Burla Nagarika Committee to press the demand. Vehicular movement was also disrupted during the bandh, sources said.
Political parties, social organisations and traders’ association have extended their support to the bandh.
Vehicular movement was affected due to the bandh which is being observed from 6 am to 6 pm. However, emergency services including ambulance and healthcare services have been exempted from the purview of the bandh.
The residents of the town have been demanding land rights from the past few months which are yet to be addressed. Meanwhile, eviction drives are being carried out in the name of road widening, alleged the agitators.
Security has been tightened and police personnel in strength have been deployed at several locations to prevent any untoward situation.
