Temporary BMC sheds near traffic posts in Bhubaneswar spark public discontent amid heatwave

With the mercury soaring and the heat wave tightening its grip on the city, Bhubaneswar is reeling under intense heat. The scorching sun combined with the heat radiating from asphalt roads has made daytime movement nearly unbearable. 

To provide some relief, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has erected temporary roadside sheds across various parts of the city.

What Are These Temporary Sheds?

These makeshift shelters, built using bamboo, wooden poles, and covered with plastic sheets, aim to shield pedestrians from the relentless sun and scorching heat. While they do offer a degree of comfort, the way they have been constructed—narrowing the roads and obstructing free movement—has drawn criticism from the public.

Many of these sheds occupy nearly one foot of road space on both sides, resulting in traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. In some areas, even the designated emergency lane for ambulances has become inaccessible. The overcrowding under these sheds has made the situation worse, leading to longer traffic jams and increased public frustration.

“As the left side of the road is encroached, it is creating traffic snarls and we have to wait. Had the BMC used thick covers, it would have been better,” said a commuter.

Another commuter echoed similar views, “Left turn also invites fine, and creates problems from the smooth passage of ambulance and other emergency vehicles. Due to such installation of shed, it is creating obstruction.”

Citizens have also raised concerns over the flimsy quality of the covers, which have already begun to tear in places, posing safety risks. Many have expressed dissatisfaction, questioning the logic behind such arrangements and the lack of proper planning.

BMC’s Response

When questioned, BMC Mayor Sulochana Das said, “These sheds are a temporary arrangement for three months and have been built with proper permission from the Roads and Buildings (R&D) Department.” 

If such arrangements are meant for the benefit of the people, why are they becoming a cause of distress? Why does BMC not engage in deeper planning before execution? These are some questions now being raised by people in Bhubaneswar.