Major eviction drive around Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday carried out a major eviction drive around Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar, demolishing several alleged illegal constructions that had encroached upon drainage channels and public pathways.

Bulldozers were pressed into service as the civic body’s special squad removed houses and commercial establishments built over drains and conservancy lanes near the hospital premises. The eviction drive was conducted in the presence of the Mayor and the Municipal Commissioner, indicating the administration’s seriousness in clearing encroachments around the key government healthcare facility.

Unauthorised Occupation Demolished

Officials said the road near the mortuary located behind Capital Hospital was also freed from unauthorised occupation. According to the BMC, some local residents had constructed structures by covering drains, leading to obstruction in water flow and causing sanitation concerns in the area.

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Apart from demolishing illegal structures, authorities also directed the removal and relocation of vehicles and ambulances that were parked unlawfully around the hospital premises. The civic body stated that the move was aimed at ensuring smooth traffic movement, improving drainage systems, and enhancing accessibility for patients and emergency services.

Safety For Women First

The eviction drive was carried out under tight security to prevent any untoward incident.

“There were a lot of encroachments; people had opened chicken and mutton stalls, and many other places were turned into anti-social hubs. So, today we are demolishing all the illegal shops and anti-social hubs,” informed BMC Commissioner Chanchal Rana. 

“The ambulances have been relocated to another place. There will be no parking there from now on. Today, we are turning it into a no-parking zone. Apart from that, the place was often in the dark with no lighting. So, antisocials used to use it for drinking and other activities. So, this entire area will be cleaned as women are feeling unsafe,” informed Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das.