Punjab Bandh: Delhi-Chandigarh Highway Blocked, Routes Diverted in 3 States
Farmers in Punjab have sought a state-wide bandh while the cold winter weather worsens amid intensification of protest over MSP and 13 other demands. The protest has brought highways to a halt and even resulted in postponement of university exams.
Major Disruptions
Road Obstructions: Since 7 AM, major highways Amritsar-Delhi and Jalandhar-Delhi have been obstructed by thousands of farmers. Mohali Airport Road and Bhatinda Highway have also been blocked, stopping connectivity to Delhi and Himachal Pradesh.
Public Transport and Trains: From 10 AM, bus services have been stopped, and 52 trains have been cancelled. Many routes have been diverted.
Shut Services: All shops, vegetable markets, petrol pumps, and offices are closed except medical stores and emergency services.
Punjab Bandh: किसानों ने आज पंजाब बंद का ऐलान किया है। नेशनल हाईवे बंद हैं, कई ट्रेनें कैंसिल कर दी गई हैं, कुछ ट्रेनों के रूट डायवर्टेड हैं।#PunjabNews pic.twitter.com/JDHslTo6V0
— Sakshi (@sakkshiofficial) December 30, 2024
Effects on Institutions
Examinations in Punjab and Chandigarh universities have been postponed due to the bandh. Weddings, air travel, and interviews were permitted with minimum restrictions.
Public Support and Provisions
Farmers have been gathering at Amritsar's Golden Gate, where community kitchens (langars) were set up to support protesters. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher expressed gratitude for public backing, emphasizing the unity in their cause despite opposition rumors.
