Traffic Restrictions Put in Place as SKM Protest Begins; Commuters Advised to Plan Routes
Mohali: The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) on Tuesday began a seven-day “pakka morcha” in the Mohali-Chandigarh area, with farmers scheduled to continue their protest from September 1 to 7 over a range of agricultural and Punjab-specific issues.
The agitation is being organised by the SKM, a coalition of 32 farmer organisations, and focuses on several key demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops, implementation of the MSP formula recommended by the Swaminathan Commission, and issues concerning Punjab’s water rights.
One of the major concerns raised by the farmers is the proposed India-US Free Trade Agreement, which they fear could adversely affect the interests of farmers and the agricultural sector.
Demand for Legal MSP Guarantee
The farmers are seeking a statutory guarantee for MSP covering all crops. They have demanded that MSP be determined according to the C2+50 formula, under which farmers are assured a price providing 50 per cent above the comprehensive cost of production.
Farmer organisations have maintained that a legally enforceable MSP mechanism is necessary to provide greater income security to the farming community.
Punjab Water Rights Also a Major Issue
The morcha is also highlighting Punjab’s concerns regarding river-water rights and representation in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). The issue has remained politically and agriculturally sensitive in the state, with farmer organisations demanding protection of Punjab’s water interests.
Traffic Restrictions in Mohali
The farmers’ protest has also resulted in traffic restrictions in parts of Mohali and adjoining Chandigarh.
According to the traffic arrangements announced by the authorities, the road stretch from IISER Chowk towards Bestech Mall in Phase 11 and onward towards Jagatpura and Chandigarh has been affected by restrictions.
Traffic approaching Chandigarh from the Faidhan Barrier/Purv Marg side has also been diverted as part of the arrangements.
With the protest expected to continue for seven days, commuters travelling between Mohali and Chandigarh, particularly during peak hours, may face delays and congestion. Motorists have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and use alternative routes wherever possible.
The authorities have deployed traffic personnel and made arrangements to regulate vehicular movement in the affected areas.
The SKM has said that the protest will continue till September 7 as farmers press the Centre and the Punjab Government to address their respective demands.
The developments are expected to keep traffic movement around the Mohali-Chandigarh border and Jagatpura area under pressure during the week.
