Balangir: A 12-hour bandh is being observed by the Koshal State Coordination Committee in 11 districts of western Odisha today demanding formation of a separate Koshal state.

The agitators were seen picketing outside several offices holding banners this morning. While shops, business establishments and educational institutions remained closed due to the bandh, vehicular movement came to a grinding halt creating severe inconvenience for the commuters.

Various associations have also extended their support to the bandh call by the committee. Emergency services have been excluded from the ambit of the bandh.

Policemen have been deployed in the areas to prevent any untoward incident.