NEW DELHI: On Monday, significant traffic disruptions plagued commuters attempting to cross the Delhi-Noida border due to a farmers’ protest march aimed at the national capital. The tumult was heightened as police established multiple barricades and deployed extensive security measures in anticipation of the demonstration, which drew farmers from various parts of Uttar Pradesh.
The protest began at the Mahamaya flyover along the Dadri-Noida link road around 11:30 a.m. Assembled groups of farmers sought to voice their demands, focusing on issues such as land allocation and increased compensation for agricultural lands acquired by the government. The Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP) catalyzed this protest, encouraging participation from farmers across 20 districts in Uttar Pradesh, including notable regions like Aligarh and Agra.
As protestors, adorned with banners and flags representing various farmer organizations, advanced toward the barricades established by the Noida Police, tension mounted. A significant number of farmers managed to breach the initial barricades, with some opting to climb over them while others pushed against the obstacles. They were ultimately halted by police forces near the Dalit Prerna Sthal on the Noida Link Road, positioned about one kilometer from the Chilla border a critical entry point into Delhi. Senior police officials attempted to negotiate with the protesting farmers in a bid to de-escalate the situation.
The aftermath of this protest created considerable inconvenience for commuters traveling through the affected routes, particularly at the Chilla border, DND flyway, Delhi Gate, and Kalindi Kunj. Reports indicated that heavy traffic snarls persisted for hours, contributing to a frustrating commute for many. One commuter, Aprajita Singh, a resident from Greater Noida, expressed her frustration. “It took me about an hour to navigate that stretch. The police barricades at the Chilla border were exceptionally troublesome, leading to significant traffic congestion, especially for those traveling from Noida to Delhi,” she recounted.
Amit Thakur, another commuter from Noida, opted to abandon his vehicle due to the severe congestion. “Before leaving for my office in central Delhi, I checked the traffic updates, which indicated heavy jams near the Chilla border. This added almost an hour to my usual travel time, so I decided to take the metro instead,” he explained.
In preparation for the day’s events, Noida Police issued a traffic advisory on Sunday, informing the public of impending route closures and diversions. Delhi Police responded similarly, erecting multiple barricades and deploying security personnel at strategic points, including the Chilla border on Noida Link Road, DND flyway, and Kalindi Kunj border.
A senior officer from the Delhi Police informed the public about ongoing checks at border points, alongside the innovative use of drones for surveillance purposes. “We have made adequate arrangements at the eastern borders of Delhi and have taken all precautionary measures, including the provision of anti-riot equipment. Drones are being deployed for aerial vigilance, while we’re also coordinating with traffic units to facilitate smooth vehicular movement in the area,” Additional Commissioner of Police (East) Sagar Singh Kalsi stated.
Further asserting the police stance, Joint Commissioner of Police (Southern Range) S.K. Jain remarked, “We have two key borders in the southeast district—the DND border and Kalindi Kunj. With Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) currently in effect in New Delhi and the session of Parliament underway, protests without official permission are strictly prohibited. To manage this situation effectively, we have intensified security measures at both borders. We have deployed appropriate barricades, jersey barriers, and hydra cranes to ensure that any attempts to enter the city forcibly are thwarted.”
As the day progressed, Jain reassured that the situation at the border was ultimately under control, reflecting a more stable environment for commuters. However, the larger context remains significant as another march is anticipated on December 6, when a group of farmers from Punjab, led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), plans to head toward Delhi. This group has been stationed at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana since February 13, reflecting the ongoing issues within the farming community and their continued struggle for recognition and equitable treatment.
In conclusion, the day’s events highlight not only the logistical challenges posed by such protests but also the persistent grievances faced by farmers across the nation, making it clear that the discourse surrounding agricultural policies and land rights remains a highly charged and pivotal aspect of India’s socio-political landscape.
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Reference- Massive traffic jams at Delhi-Noida border
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