Bhubaneswar: Serious concerns have emerged over safety and management standards at the district-level Subhadra Shakti Mela in Jharsuguda, an event organised under the state’s Mission Shakti programme to promote women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Major Safety Breach Reported
In a significant lapse, a heavy transport vehicle was reportedly found parked inside a vendor stall area meant for SHG participants. The presence of such a vehicle within a pedestrian and commercial zone has raised serious safety concerns among visitors and vendors, who described the situation as hazardous and avoidable.
Infrastructure Under Scrutiny
Apart from safety issues, the quality of infrastructure at the mela has drawn criticism. Reports and visuals from the ground point to:
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Weak and unstable stall structures
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Torn and poorly maintained materials
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Inadequate roofing and protection for displayed goods
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Unorganised and incomplete layout in several sections
Participants have expressed concern that these conditions undermine both safety and the professional presentation of locally produced goods.
Demand for Accountability
The incident has triggered public outrage, with calls for accountability directed at local authorities and the Government of Odisha. Citizens and stakeholders have urged immediate inspection of the venue and corrective action to ensure safety standards are met.
Critics argue that such lapses not only pose risks to public safety but also affect the livelihoods of women entrepreneurs who depend on these platforms for income and visibility.
Authorities are yet to issue an official response regarding the reported irregularities.
-OdishaAge
