Anugola: A 12-hour bandh was being observed across Odisha's Anugola district on Wednesday following a shutdown call by the district Congress unit over problems linked to coal transportation and the alleged arrest of five agitators in false cases.

The shutdown began at 6 am and will continue until 6 pm. Shops and business establishments remained closed in several parts of the district, while vehicular movement was also affected. Congress workers were seen picketing at different locations to enforce the bandh.

Police personnel have been deployed in large numbers across the district to maintain law and order during the bandh.

Congress has demanded an immediate review of the problems faced by locals due to coal transportation and the withdrawal of cases against five protesters from Kosala panchayat who are currently in judicial custody. The party had earlier warned that it would observe a district-wide shutdown on August 12 if its demands were not addressed.

According to the Congress, more than 2,000 coal-laden trucks travel every day between 9 pm and 6 am through Chhendipada, Kosala, Jarasingha, Angul town, Turanga and Banarpal areas.

The heavy movement of coal-laden trucks has allegedly caused dust and noise pollution, road accidents, traffic congestion and various health-related problems for residents in the affected areas.

The Congress has demanded an immediate assessment of the problems caused by coal transportation and permanent measures to address them. It has also submitted a memorandum seeking coordination among the concerned departments to ensure dust control, road safety and better public convenience.

The party has said that the authorities should take necessary measures after discussions with the departments concerned to reduce the difficulties faced by locals.