Kochi High-Rise Demolition - Will BDA Use Implosion To Raze 147 Illegal Buildings In Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: As many as 343 waterfront flats built in the complexes violating the Coastal Regulation Zone norms in Kerala were recently demolished following Supreme Court's order. This has raised speculations when the illegal high-rises in Odisha, especially in Bhubaneswar, will face similar action.

Moreover, the BDA had reportedly contacted a company that deals with demolition of apartments through the controlled-implosion method.

Meanwhile, builders and social activists have urged the development authority to take into account the safety and security of human lives and property prior to taking any decision on demolition.

"If such demolition drives can be undertaken in Kerala, why not in Odisha as there are several such allegations and even the State government is well aware of it. If the government wants, all illegal buildings can be demolished in a day," said social activist, Pradeep Pradhan.

"The government is yet to consider such an extreme step like implosion. But if the government takes such extreme step, it will send a strong message to the violators," said a builder, Tapan Mohanty.

As per reports, more than 6000 cases related to illegal buildings have been registered by the BDA of which 437 are high-rises. BDA has also reportedly registered cases against 423 builders.