Cuttack, Jan 6: The demolition of unsafe structures in Cuttack city has officially begun following directives from the Orissa High Court.

A total of 220 government and private buildings identified as unsafe are slated for removal. The Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department has already started demolition work by bringing down two quarters in the Government Press Colony.

Although these structures had been declared unsafe earlier, the administration had delayed action, drawing criticism from the High Court. After expressing dissatisfaction, the court instructed authorities to begin the process immediately, leading to the submission of an affidavit confirming compliance.

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Social activist Abhaya Patnaik welcomed the decision, stating that the demolition drive is necessary to ensure urban safety. The initiative reflects the administration’s attempt to balance environmental concerns with structural safety, while responding to judicial directives.

The Orissa High Court’s intervention has accelerated long-pending actions, and the enforcement of pollution curbs highlights the urgency of addressing environmental challenges in Odisha’s twin cities.

The Incident that Triggered Demolition Drive

Three people, including a minor, were killed and three others injured when the balcony of an old apartment collapsed in Cuttack’s Mani Sahu Chhak locality on November 8 last year.

The structure fell onto an adjacent house, causing severe damage and sparking outrage over poor building safety.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced ₹4 lakh compensation for each victim’s family and assured medical care for the injured.

A probe panel later flagged gross violations of the building plan and years of neglect in maintenance. The incident highlighted urgent concerns over structural safety in Odisha’s urban areas.