Demand for separate ‘Koshal State’ in western Odisha intensifies

Bolangir: The Koshal State Coordination Committee is observing a 12-hour dawn to dusk ‘Koshal Mahabandh’ in 11 districts of western Odisha- Bargarh, Bolangir, Boudh, Koraput, Deogarh, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Sundergarh, Sambalpur and Sonepur- today to press for creating of a separate Koshal State.

Despite heavy rains under the impact of cyclonic storm ‘Phethai’, the members of the committee were seen picketing in front of several offices from early morning today.

Several associations have extended their support towards the shutdown for the long standing demand for formation of a separate Koshal State.

Normal life came to a grinding halt in the region due to the bandh since early morning. Markets, business establishments, educational institutions and government offices have remained closed while vehicular movement has also been hit due to the bandh.

However, emergency services including railway services have been kept out of the purview of the shutdown.

Meanwhile, adequate security measures have been taken by the concerned district administration to avoid any untoward incident.