Thodupuzha: Prohibitory orders were issued in Poopara on Wednesday ahead of the eviction of 56 encroachments including houses and shops on the bank of Panniar river. The eviction follows a High Court order. The revenue department has also sought police security for this.

Idukki Sub Collector Arun S Nair has arrived in Poopara for the eviction. "The shops will not be demolished. It will evacuated and sealed. Shopkeepers have been given time till 5pm to remove perishables from the shop. No tenants will be evicted from the homes. They will be served notices," the Sub Collector said.

The Action Council President Babu Varghese stated that the eviction will be prevented as the 45 days allowed by the court have not yet been completed.

The High Court special bench dealing with land issues passed the order on January 17. The court had directed authorities to complete the eviction process with the help of the police. There was widespread protest against the HC order to vacate the encroached area within six weeks.

Local residents argue that if the order is implemented, a part of Poopara town will disappear. Residents said that the eviction of individuals who have inhabited the area for over 60 years, setting up homes and businesses, will have severe repercussions. They have also alleged that the revenue department, which did not take any action against the construction works in the area, was eager to label the common man as encroachers.