Ganjam’s Bhanjanagar police station redefines community policing

Ganjam’s Bhanjanagar Police Station in Odisha has transformed into a community-friendly space, attracting visitors beyond official purposes. Instead of coming only to lodge complaints, people of all ages now visit the police station in the evenings to spend time in a pleasant environment and interact openly with police officers.

The premises feature flower plants, colourful lights, greenery and neatly paved pathways, giving it the appearance of a park from a distance. A small children’s park with swings and slides has been built inside, drawing young visitors every evening. Temples of Lord Ganesh and Lord Trinath Swami have also been constructed. Drinking water facilities are available, and women, children and elderly people visit the station from far-off areas to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Locals Express Joy

Saroj Mishra, a local resident said, “This place hardly feels like a police station at all. It has been maintained beautifully, and the effort put in is clearly visible. The Bhanjanagar IIC has truly done a commendable job.”

Another local said that the place had been developed and maintained in such a way that it felt less like a police station and more like a Mughal garden, with a calm and peaceful atmosphere throughout.

Jibanananda Jena, Bhanjanagar Police Station In-charge said, “The place where we work and spend most of our time should be pleasant and uplifting, both for us and for everyone who visits. It should reflect our commitment to hygiene and cleanliness. With this belief, we have transformed this place.”

Friendly Relationship Among Locals and Police

Every Sunday, Bhanjanagar Police Station Officer Jibananda Jena himself waters the plants and takes care of them. All the staff of the police station also cooperate in keeping the environment clean and well maintained. Such efforts are being made to build good relations between the police and the public and to ensure that people can submit their complaints without any fear, hesitation or conflict.

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Sharing her views, local resident Saaeta Rout said that a wide variety of flowers, including roses and jasmine, add to the beauty of the premises. She also noted that a small children’s park with swings and slides has been developed inside, attracting young visitors every day.

Dr. Deepak Kumar Mishra, Bhanjanagar SDPO said, “The collective efforts of both the police personnel and the local community have created a space that offers a sense of relief, allowing people to spend quality time with friends and family and helping police officials manage work-related stress. This initiative has also fostered a friendly relationship between locals and police officials, encouraging people to approach the police without fear or hesitation.”

Several police stations in Ganjam district have now been given a similar transformation, reflecting a growing effort to create more welcoming and community-friendly policing spaces.