Delhi Braces for Traffic Chaos as Farmers March Towards Capital

Heightened security measures were implemented in anticipation of a farmer’s march from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to the Capital, aiming to avert potential traffic chaos in the National Capital Region on Tuesday. Prohibitory orders enforced by the Delhi Police restricted movement and public gatherings.

The farmers planned to gather at Singhu, Tikri, and Ghazipur border points, prompting the placement of metal barricades, shipping containers,  and trenches on Delhi’s outskirts. Despite the late-night conclusion of a meeting with Union ministers, farm leaders confirmed the continuation of the protest.

Expectations of traffic disruptions across various parts of the city were high, with a revised traffic advisory warning of possible diversions at border points depending on conditions. Earlier advisories had already outlined traffic restrictions for commercial and all types of vehicles.

Over 50 Delhi Police and paramilitary companies were deployed at the borders, equipped with tear gas launchers, bulletproof vests, helmets, and weapons. Drones monitored the city’s outskirts, while multiple layers of barricades and vehicles formed blockades to deter protesters.

Also read: Farmers Prepare for Massive ‘Delhi Chalo’ March: What Are Their Main Requests

Police stations citywide were put on alert, with intensified patrolling and vehicle checks in central Delhi. These preparations followed a stalemate in talks between Union ministers and protesting farmer representatives in Punjab.

Authorities in Haryana and Punjab fortified their borders to prevent the march, imposing restrictions and deploying forces. Despite curbs, farmers set off towards Delhi on trucks and tractors, prompting clashes with authorities at barricades.

Government representatives expressed openness to further talks, but farmer leaders remained skeptical, citing unmet demands and announcing plans for the march towards the Capital.

The farmers’ demands include minimum support prices, farm loan waivers, jobs for families of protest casualties, and compensation for injuries and casualties in specific incidents, including Lakhimpur Kheri.

Also read: Farmers Prepare for Massive ‘Delhi Chalo’ March: What Are Their Main Requests

The Delhi Police extended prohibitory orders across the city, aiming to prevent a resurgence of protests that led to the repeal of agricultural reform laws in 2020-21.

Security forces aimed to prevent a repeat of past agitations, learning from experiences where farmers had seized key roads and landmarks, such as storming the Red Fort in January 2021.