All operations at the Dhamra Port were stopped for the consecutive second day on Thursday as the agitating Biju Janata Dal activists did not allow entry to the employees into the port premises. The halt in cargo handling resulted in huge loss of revenue, port sources said.
Reports said the ruling party activists, who have been staging dharna at the port’s main gate since Wednesday, hindered entry and exit to the catering, housekeeping and canteen staffs. Similarly, they did not allow schoolchildren to attend their classes at DPCl DAV Public School.
The parents and senior citizens of the project area expressed concerns over the disturbances caused to the children.The agitators allowed entry to the employees in the evening only after being assured of steps towards fulfillment of their demands by Forest and Environment Minister and local BJD MlA Bijoyshree Routray.
Routray said he would direct the company authorities to restrict its recruitments and awarding of contracts to eight periphery panchayats of the port only. Even though they allowed entry, the activists said they would not take out the tent until their demands are met.