Siliguri, 21st May: Tension prevailed at the Naresh More area adjacent to Ashighar Outpost on Thursday after local residents staged a road blockade protesting against the installation of a mobile tower on a multi-storey building in the locality.
According to local sources, a dispute had been continuing for a long time over the proposed installation of the tower on the rooftop of the building. Residents alleged that the house owner had started the installation work without informing or taking permission from people living in the area.
Although the work had earlier been stopped following protests, locals became agitated again after installation work reportedly resumed recently. A large number of residents gathered in front of the building on Thursday and blocked the road in protest, leading to tension in the area.
To control the situation, police from Ashighar Outpost along with central forces reached the spot. During the protest, Dabgram II Gram Panchayat Pradhan Mitali Malakar also arrived at the location but had to leave amid strong opposition from protesters. After prolonged protests, the road blockade was eventually lifted.
Local residents claimed that installation of the tower could adversely affect the health of children and elderly people. They also alleged that the work had started without necessary permissions.
Meanwhile, the house owner stated that the work has currently been stopped. A meeting will be held in the presence of police after representatives of the tower company arrive, following which a decision regarding further steps will be taken.