Banking Crisis in Bhadrak as Staircase Vanishes
In an extraordinary turn of events, a State Bank of India branch located in Odisha's Bhadrak district found itself completely cut off from the public after its only access point—an exterior staircase—was demolished during a major anti-encroachment operation. For two consecutive days, both bank employees and customers were forced to undertake a precarious climb using a makeshift ladder mounted on a tractor to conduct their banking activities.
The Unusual Tractor-Ladder Access Solution
Viral videos circulating on social media platforms captured the bizarre scene unfolding at the first-floor bank branch. The footage showed a ladder precariously positioned against the building's side, stabilized by a tractor parked beneath it. Individuals, including bank staff and customers, were seen carefully scaling the ladder while a security guard and another assistant helped manage their belongings during the risky ascent.
The clearance operation that led to this situation occurred on November 20 and 21 as part of a large-scale initiative to remove illegal structures along the route stretching from Charampa Market to Bhadrak Railway Station. Local authorities confirmed that numerous commercial establishments, residential properties, and shops were dismantled during this drive. The front section and main staircase of the SBI building were among the structures removed because they were constructed on encroached public land.
Official Notices Ignored Before Demolition
According to official statements, the anti-encroachment drive followed proper procedure with public announcements made well in advance. Encroachers were given a two-day window to voluntarily vacate the occupied spaces. Many local shopkeepers heeded this warning and removed their illegal extensions themselves.
Both the building owner and the bank management had received multiple formal notices regarding the encroachment issue but failed to take any corrective measures. The demolition was ultimately carried out under the direct supervision of the Sub-Collector, Tehsildar, and other enforcement officers.
Permanent Solution Finally Installed
The temporary tractor-ladder arrangement remained in place for two days, allowing the bank to continue operations despite the challenging circumstances. Following widespread public outcry and media attention highlighting the dangerous access method, the building owner took swift action on Wednesday by installing a new, permanent steel staircase, thereby restoring normal and safe access to the branch.
