Chandigarh authorities have announced significant traffic restrictions for Wednesday as the city prepares for a massive farmers' mobilization marking five years since the historic agitation against the now-repealed farm laws.
Major Road Closures Announced
The Chandigarh Police issued a detailed advisory outlining traffic restrictions on Jan Marg from Kajheri Chowk (Sector 42/43–52/53) to Sector 42/43 Small Chowk, extending up to Attawa Chowk (Sector 35/36/42/43). These measures come in anticipation of thousands of farmers converging on the city for the Samyukt Kisan Morcha's fifth anniversary commemoration.
In addition to the Jan Marg restrictions, traffic on the V-4 road in Sector 43—from Sector 43/44 Light Point to Judicial Academy Light Point, up to Sector 42/43 Small Chowk—will also be diverted to accommodate the peaceful demonstration.
Massive Farmer Gathering Expected
Chandigarh is bracing for a substantial influx of farmer groups entering from Punjab, Haryana, and nearby regions. The gathering represents contingents from over 30 farmer organizations united under the Samyukt Kisan Morcha banner.
Police estimates suggest more than 10,000 farmers are expected to participate in the anniversary mobilization, potentially affecting traffic flow throughout the tricity area. The Sector 43 Dussehra Ground has been officially designated as the demonstration site to facilitate the march and maintain public order.
Enhanced Security Measures Deployed
The Chandigarh police are leaving nothing to chance, deploying nearly 3,000 personnel across sensitive points, border areas, and internal routes. The comprehensive security arrangement includes barricading, mobile patrol units, drone surveillance, and dedicated route-monitoring teams.
Sumer Partap Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police, Traffic, has advised the public to utilize alternative routes and follow real-time updates through official police social media channels: @trafficchd on X, @trafficchd on Instagram, and @ChandigarhTrafficPolice on Facebook.
The police advisory expressed: "We appeal to the general public to cooperate with the police, and any inconvenience caused on account of these restrictions/diversions is deeply regretted."
Learning from Past Disruptions
The administration is maintaining heightened alertness, particularly following the November 10 disruption when a rally related to Panjab University senate elections caused widespread traffic chaos. During that incident, university gates were shut and protesters broke locks to enter campus, resulting in major roads remaining gridlocked for hours and subsequent criminal cases for violence and property damage.
Areas around Sector 43, Panjab University, and key junctions are expected to experience the most significant impact on Wednesday, especially with farmer groups entering from the Mohali side. Road users have been cautioned to expect diversions and delays across major arterial roads throughout the day.
