Chandigarh is set to experience fresh traffic restrictions on Monday as local authorities have permitted the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU-Rajewal) to hold a protest. The demonstration is scheduled for July 13, and the UT police have announced specific traffic curbs to manage the expected influx of farmers and their supporters.
Traffic Restrictions and Timings for Farmers' Protest
The traffic restrictions will be in effect from 10:30 am to 3 pm on several major roads in the city. According to the UT police, the affected routes include the stretch from the Sector 51/52 light point to the ISBT Sector 43 chowk. Additionally, the Sector 34-35/43-44 junction (South End Chowk) to the Sector 21-22/34-35 junction (Piccadilly Chowk) will be closed, including the Aroma light point on Himalayan Marg.
Restrictions will also be enforced on the road from Piccadilly Chowk to the Sector 20/21-33/34 junction on Dakshin Marg. This includes Kisan Bhawan Chowk and the Sector 20/30-32 area. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and avoid these routes during the specified hours.
Routes to Avoid During the Protest
To minimize disruption, the police have identified key roads that will be most affected. The primary routes to avoid include:
- The stretch from Sector 51/52 light point to ISBT Sector 43 chowk
- South End Chowk to Piccadilly Chowk, including the Aroma light point on Himalayan Marg
- Piccadilly Chowk to the Sector 20/21-33/34 junction on Dakshin Marg, including Kisan Bhawan Chowk
These measures are being taken to ensure the protest proceeds smoothly while minimizing inconvenience to the general public.
Our Take: Planning Ahead for Commuters
In our view, the traffic restrictions are a necessary step to balance the right to protest with the need for public order. However, the lack of detailed alternative routes in the advisory could cause confusion for daily commuters. We recommend that travelers check for real-time updates and consider using public transport or leaving earlier than usual. The police should also consider providing clearer guidance on diversion points to reduce congestion on already busy roads.
