A 12-hour bandh in Odisha, initiated by the Congress party with backing from the INDIA coalition, has led to significant disruptions in Berhampur and Sambalpur, leaving many commuters in distress.

In Berhampur, all bus and autorickshaw services were halted, while shops, markets, and schools remained closed throughout the duration of the shutdown.

Demonstrators from the Congress and Left parties gathered near Berhampur Railway Station, blocking traffic and urging local residents to participate in the bandh.

The suspension of public transport services caused considerable challenges for travelers, many of whom faced difficulties reaching their intended locations.

In Sambalpur, Congress activists also held a Rail Roko protest at the railway station, attempting to halt the Sambalpur-Puri Intercity Express and the Sambalpur-Rayagada Intercity Express. Additionally, they obstructed the Puri-Durg train, leading to further interruptions in rail service.

Police forces were dispatched to the railway station upon receiving reports of the protest, successfully clearing the tracks and allowing train services to resume.

To prevent additional disturbances, law enforcement set up barricades outside the Sambalpur Railway Station.

Heightened security measures have been implemented in both Berhampur and Sambalpur to uphold peace during the bandh, which continues to affect transportation and commercial activities in these cities.