Farmers’ Protest Impact: Routes to Avoid in Chandigarh Amid Ongoing Demonstrations
As the farmers’ protests across Punjab continue to gain momentum, Chandigarh has become a critical focal point for these large-scale demonstrations. The city, which serves as both the capital of Punjab and Haryana, is experiencing significant traffic disruptions, particularly near protest sites. Commuters and travelers are advised to be aware of the routes most affected to avoid delays and complications in their daily commute.
Why Are These Protests Disrupting Traffic?
Farmers have been protesting the Indian government’s new agricultural laws, which they fear will undermine their rights and economic security. These protests, which have now entered their second month, have targeted both rural and urban centers across Punjab. In Chandigarh, the farmers have set up blockades and sit-ins along major routes, bringing daily traffic to a halt.
Routes That Are Heavily Affected
- Sector 24 to Sector 34 This stretch, connecting residential areas with central business districts, has seen heavy traffic disruptions. Protesters have gathered around the intersections, and many roads have been blocked at various times of the day. This area is especially impacted during morning and evening rush hours.
- Chandigarh-Zirakpur Road As one of the primary routes connecting Chandigarh to the town of Zirakpur, this highway is essential for commuters traveling towards the Chandigarh International Airport and beyond. However, the road has been blocked multiple times due to the ongoing protests. This has caused massive delays for travelers attempting to leave or enter the city.
- Sector 12 to Sector 9 (Chandigarh to Panchkula Road) This route has witnessed increasing protest activity, with large gatherings occupying the road and causing significant delays. Travelers looking to reach Panchkula or surrounding areas should consider using alternate routes such as the Zirakpur-Panchkula Highway.
How to Cope With the Disruptions
For those who need to travel through Chandigarh, it’s important to stay informed about the latest updates. Checking real-time traffic conditions on apps such as Google Maps and Waze can help you find alternative routes in case of sudden road closures. Additionally, public transportation options like buses may offer a more reliable alternative to private vehicles during these protests. Train services remain relatively unaffected by the road closures, so using the railway for longer journeys is another viable option.
