In an unusual situation, customers of the State Bank of India (SBI) branch at Charampa market in Odisha's Bhadrak were compelled to climb a ladder placed on the back of a tractor to enter the bank, after its staircase was demolished during an anti-encroachment drive. The temporary arrangement was made after the encroachment clearance left the building without access.

Four days ago, the local administration undertook an encroachment removal operation from Charampa market to Bhadrak Railway Station, reportedly. Several shops, houses and structures were demolished as part of the drive. Among the structures affected was a portion of the SBI branch building, including its front section and staircase, which authorities claimed was allegedly built on encroached land. 

Announcements were reportedly made through microphones and speakers, and two days were given to vacate the encroached land. Many shop owners reportedly cleared the area voluntarily.

Prior Notice To Bank Authorities

According to sources, the bank and the house owner were notified multiple times about the encroachment. However, the authorities did not take corrective steps. The demolition was carried out under the supervision of the Sub-Collector, Tehsildar and other officials, sources said.

Viral Video Leads To Response

Following the demolition, the bank placed a ladder mounted on a tractor to allow employees and customers to access the branch located on the first floor. Videos of customers climbing the ladder to reach the bank went viral online, sparking discussion and highlighting the inconvenience faced, particularly a few days ago.

New Staircase Installed

Reports indicate that all bank employees, along with customers who urgently required services, were compelled to use the makeshift entry arrangement. The situation drew widespread attention, prompting the house owner, in whose building the bank operates, to install a steel staircase.

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The new staircase was installed on Saturday, after which normal access to the bank resumed.