Barricades were erected in order to stop suspected vehicles and check them to ensure that Rohida or any other anti-social linked with him, did not enter the city and commit any crime. Police personnel were posted for this purpose for a few days, but the force seems to have lost enthusiasm for the job. Though the personnel were withdrawn from the barricade points erected near octroi and sale tax checkposts, the barricades were left in place and are now obstructing smooth traffic flow. ``What is the use of barricades when the police is not there to check the suspected vehicles'', asked a senior citizen.

Commissioner of Police J Mahapatra, when questioned about the withdrawal of police from barricades, replied vaguely that that the barricades in fact minimised road mishaps.