In preparation for an upcoming eviction drive, the district administration in Balasore, Odisha, has imposed a curfew in select areas to maintain law and order. The move comes as authorities seek to clear illegal occupants from railway land, which is obstructing the construction of a third rail line intended to improve connectivity.
The eviction drive is part of a broader effort to facilitate the construction of a new rail line connecting Narayangarh in Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, to Bhadrak, Odisha, passing through Balasore. The third line aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance the region’s railway infrastructure.
According to an official order, the curfew will be enforced in key areas, including Aradbazar, Haripur, Kasimila Bridge, and Nuabazar Railway Gate, from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. on both January 11 and January 12, 2025. The curfew aims to prevent any disturbances or unrest during the eviction process, particularly in Mauza-Jadpur, Akatpur, and Bhaskarganj, where tensions are expected to rise due to the forced removal of illegal settlers.
Under the curfew, residents are prohibited from leaving their homes or traveling on public roads, with exceptions only for emergency medical situations. Authorities have issued the order under Section 163 of the BNSS to safeguard public safety and ensure the eviction is carried out without incidents.
