Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
HomeBREAKING NEWSOdisha Bandh Brings Bhubaneswar to Standstill; Roads Blocked, Transport Disrupted

Odisha Bandh Brings Bhubaneswar to Standstill; Roads Blocked, Transport Disrupted

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Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar witnessed widespread disruptions on Thursday as opposition parties, led by the Congress, enforced a statewide Odisha Bandh. The protests were sparked by public outrage over the death of a 20-year-old student, who allegedly died by suicide after authorities failed to act on her sexual harassment complaint against a professor.

Major Road Blockades Across Capital

Congress workers staged protests and blocked roads at key locations across the capital, including Master Canteen Chhaka, Rajmahal Square, Rasulgarh, and AG Square, causing severe traffic congestion and commuter chaos.

The National Highway was also blocked at Vani Vihar and Rasulgarh, bringing vehicular movement to a halt. Heavy vehicles, including trucks and buses, were stranded on the flyovers at Vani Vihar and Hanspal, adding to the disruption.

Public Transport Takes a Hit

Public transportation, including the Ama Bus service, was largely suspended due to the Bandh. Many private vehicles stayed off the roads in anticipation of disturbances.

In one incident, a couple from Delhi, who had just landed at Bhubaneswar Airport, found themselves stranded as they struggled to reach Berhampur to attend a funeral, facing travel hurdles due to the Bandh.

Police Deployment to Maintain Law and Order

To avoid any untoward incidents, a large contingent of police personnel has been deployed at protest sites and sensitive areas throughout Bhubaneswar.

The Odisha Bandh was called to demand justice for the student, whose tragic death has sparked widespread public anger and political condemnation. The incident has intensified calls for action against those accused of negligence and inaction.

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