Bhubaneswar: Central eviction monitoring committee of the development authority conducted a demolition drive at Kharavela Nagar to remove unauthorised encroachment of footpaths and government land by big business.

With the drive, pedestrians using footpaths between Sriya Square and Hotel Hindustan International have breathed a sigh of relief.

"The encroachment was paramount here. They even covered portions of the main road with their set-ups. Though late, it is a right move of the authorities," said Ravi, a tea stall owner here.

The Telegraph had on October 25 last year reported about problems faced by citizens due to such encroachment at Kharavela Nagar following which the enforcement squad of the development authority assured the residents of taking action at the earliest.

"The requisition was made by the secretary of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority after which our enforcement team went to the spot on Wednesday and demolished illegal structures. We took adequate police support during the drive since there were chances of stiff opposition from local residents," said liaison officer of the Bhubaneswar Development Authority S.S. Mohanty.

During the drive, the enforcement team has demolished two roadside hotels, four shops and one garage. Nearly 7,690sqft of government land has been freed of such unauthorised encroachment. It was one of the major raze drives, which continued for about five hours. Three excavators were used during the drive.

"A number of influential people have encroached valuable government land in various areas of the city. Our eviction committee has been monitoring these illegal activities and is preparing a list. We are also considering grievances filed by the people. We will take action against them in timely manner," said an official of the development authority.

Due to inaction of authorities, the locality was reeling from traffic congestion, encroachment, irregular parking, bad roads, improper sanitation and more. It is one of the prime locations of the city on Janpath, a house to some of the major private and public establishments.

"The encroachment was cleared from the footpaths, but there are many areas that the authorities should look after. The condition of the main road is not very good. If the authorities want our well-being, they should continue to deliver," said resident Atul Mohanty.