Encroachment drive team retreats amidst public protest in Jamshedpur

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur:  Tension brewed in Khasmahal Colony as the Railway Land Department’s endeavor to remove encroachments, particularly the Jagannath Temple, met staunch resistance from locals on Saturday. The railway’s notice for temple removal, issued under an expansion plan, sparked immediate opposition from the temple committee and nearby residents.

Despite the department’s arrival for the eviction operation, protesters vehemently voiced their dissent, engaging in heated exchanges with railway officials. Sensing the escalating tension and community outrage, the Land Department team eventually retreated without accomplishing the task.

Explaining the railway’s stance, official Upendra Singh clarified that while no directive was issued to dismantle the temple itself, concerns arose regarding safety due to the proximity of railway quarters and reports of drug-related activities in the vicinity.

The immediate concern was the construction of an additional wall adjacent to the temple, which obstructed a road leading to the Railway Officer Club. Orders were given to remove this wall as a safety measure. However, the matter has been postponed following the intense backlash from locals.

In response, members of the Puja Mandir Committee emphasized that the boundary wall was erected solely for the temple’s security. They lamented the lack of action from authorities despite previous complaints about encroachment and hoarding near the temple premises.