Following continuous protests from various women’s organizations and youth outfits District Collector Archana Patnaik has ordered the closure of five Tasmac outlets in the South Division of the District here on Wednesday.

According to the release outlets near Perur Chettipalayam, Sundharapuram, Negamam, Kinathukidavu, Sowripalayam and Singanallur ESI hospital were closed by the officials until a suitable place is found for relocation.

The Collector also stated that the decision was based on the vulnerability of the area, bad state of the tasmac outlet and continuous petitions from the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) and other activists demanding the closure of the outlets.

Despite protests going on for many day activists had alleged that the orders had come late and officials from TASMAC have claimed that it was because of political interventions.

A higher official also claimed that even though they give orders for closure, they are not able to enforce it because of political pressure.

Meanwhile, members of the AIDWA have said that all the outlets should be closed.