State Bank of India (SBI) branch, located on the first floor of a building in Odisha’s Bhadrak district, was completely inaccessible after its only outdoor staircase was destroyed during a major local anti-encroachment drive. For two days, customers and bank employees were forced to use a makeshift ladder, mounted precariously on the back of a tractor, to visit the bank.
Videos widely shared on social media captured the unusual scene: a ladder leaning against the side of a building, secured by a tractor parked underneath. People are seen climbing the ladder, often assisted by a security guard and another man who helped manage their belongings during the ascent.
Demolition drive lands bank customers, staff in tight spots
The clearance took place on November 20 and 21 as part of a large-scale initiative to remove illegal constructions on the route from Charampa Market to Bhadrak Railway Station. Authorities confirmed that numerous commercial premises, houses and shops were dismantled, including the front and main staircase of the SBI building, as they were all built on encroaching public lands.
Officials said the operation followed due process, public notices were issued and trespassers were given two days to vacate the occupied space, NDTV reported.
Many local merchants have voluntarily removed their illegal extensions.
It is crucial that both the owner of the building and flask several formal notices regarding the intervention were served, but no remedial action was taken. The demolition was finally carried out under the direct supervision of the Sub-Collector, Tehsildar and other enforcement officers, NDTV reported.
Permanent staircase installed
An improvised access via a tractor-mounted ladder was used by the bank for two days to ensure staff and customers could still get into the first-floor office.
After widespread public astonishment and outrage at the situation, the building’s owner quickly resolved the issue on Wednesday by installing a new permanent steel staircase, immediately restoring normal access to the branch.
