SBI Bhadrak Branch Uses Makeshift Ladder After Anti-Encroachment Demolition

A State Bank of India (SBI) branch in the heart of Bhadrak town was rendered virtually inaccessible last week after local authorities demolished its front staircase during a sweeping anti-encroachment drive. The operation, conducted on November 20-21, targeted illegal constructions along the busy stretch from Charampa Market to Bhadrak Railway Station, resulting in the removal of the concrete stairs that provided the only public entrance to the first-floor banking hall.

Authorities said the demolished portion, including shops and residential structures, had encroached upon government land for years. Multiple notices had been served to the building owner and SBI management, but no corrective action was taken. After public announcements and a two-day grace period, bulldozers moved in under the supervision of the Sub-Collector, Tehsildar, and police, razing the offending structures while many neighboring shopkeepers voluntarily dismantled their extensions to avoid forced demolition.

With the main entrance gone and no immediate alternative in place, the branch reopened on Monday using an extraordinary makeshift solution: a wooden ladder propped against the rear of a tractor parked beneath the building. Customers—including senior citizens and women—were forced to climb the precarious steps, often handing over bags and passbooks to bank staff or the security guard waiting above. Viral videos of people gingerly ascending the ladder sparked both amusement and outrage across social media platforms.

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The improvised arrangement continued for two full working days, drawing sharp criticism for the inconvenience caused to account holders who had urgent transactions. Local residents complained that while encroachment removal was necessary, the administration should have ensured an alternative access route before demolishing the staircase.

Public pressure and media coverage eventually forced quick action. On Wednesday morning, the building owner installed a new steel staircase at the side of the structure, restoring normal entry to the branch by afternoon. Banking services had remained operational throughout the episode, though under highly unusual circumstances.

The incident has reignited debate in Bhadrak over balancing strict enforcement of land laws with practical considerations for essential public services. SBI has not yet issued an official statement, but branch staff expressed relief that permanent access has finally been restored.

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