Traders seek rehabilitation as decades-old shops face demolition on Station–Kitadih Road
Jamshedpur: Tension continues to prevail in Gudri Bazaar and adjoining areas along the Station–Kitadih Road as the Railway Engineering Department presses ahead with its road-widening and station development project, placing several long-standing shops under threat of demolition. The stretch, considered vital for easing traffic congestion and facilitating the Station Development Scheme, has become a flashpoint between authorities and local traders worried about their livelihoods.
Railway officials maintain that the land from Station Chowk to Kitadih Road belongs to the Railways and has remained encroached upon for nearly 60 to 70 years. As part of the project, shopkeepers were served notices directing them to vacate the premises by January 3, with demolition scheduled from January 5 in case of non-compliance. The Parsudih police station was also informed to ensure law and order during the eviction process.
While some traders have vacated their shops voluntarily, many others remain anxious, stating that the sudden move, without any rehabilitation plan, would severely impact their families. Several shopkeepers said their businesses have been their sole source of income for generations. They clarified that they are not opposed to development but are seeking alternative land or proper rehabilitation on humanitarian grounds.
Affected traders have approached local leaders and railway authorities, alleging that in earlier instances, reclaimed railway land was later allotted elsewhere, raising concerns over fairness and transparency. The ongoing uncertainty has also disrupted daily business, with customers avoiding the area amid fears of demolition.
Railway authorities, however, assert that clearing the land is essential for infrastructure expansion and smoother traffic movement. With no official assurance on rehabilitation yet, the situation remains tense and the coming days are expected to be crucial for Gudri Bazaar traders.
Railways defend eviction drive
Railway officials have said that land is essential for station development and road widening and without it, the ambitious project cannot be completed. Notices have therefore been issued to remove shops built on railway land. Officials added that the Station–Keetadih Road will be widened to ease congestion and the demands of shopkeepers will be considered as per rules, an OSR Khaspur Mandal functionary said. (w-nkm)
Demolition plan reaches DC
On the instructions of DRM Tarun Huria, the Tatanagar Railway Engineering Department has informed the Deputy Commissioner of East Singhbhum about the proposed demolition of shops along Station Chowk–Keetadih Road. The eviction drive is likely to begin on January 16 or 17. The Railways have sought administrative and police deployment to maintain law and order during the operation.
