Massive traffic disruptions were reported on the Delhi-Noida borders as thousands of farmers gathered for the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march towards the Parliament on Monday. Organised by the Bhartiya Kisan Parishad (BKP) alongside 20 farmer organisations, the protest aims to spotlight key demands, including fair compensation and benefits under recently introduced agricultural laws. Visuals captured vehicles inching forward on Chilla and DND borders amidst heavy police barricading and inspections, as commuters faced hours-long delays.
In a bid to manage the congestion, Noida Police issued an extensive advisory suggesting alternate routes. Key alternatives included the Sector 14-A flyover, Mahamaya Flyover, and Peripheral Expressway diversions. Despite these measures, several areas remained clogged, with 10-lane-wide gridlocks reported at major junctions. Security forces heightened vigilance across Delhi-NCR, with checkpoints conducting detailed vehicle inspections. However, frustration simmered among the public as daily commutes were severely disrupted.
At the heart of the protest are the farmers’ longstanding grievances, including demands for guaranteed compensation, higher land acquisition benefits, and rehabilitation for displaced families. Their demands are not merely financial but deeply human, reflecting the existential struggles of India’s agrarian community. The movement, led by banners like the Samyukta Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, represents farmers from over 20 districts who’ve been stationed at Punjab-Haryana border points for months.
From a sustainability perspective, the march underscores the precarious balance between urban development and rural welfare. The farmers’ push for higher compensation highlights the need for inclusive policies that protect agricultural livelihoods while accommodating urban growth. Resolving these conflicts is vital to ensure equitable development, avert large-scale disruptions, and foster harmony between India’s cities and its villages. The protest serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for dialogue and reform in India’s agricultural policies.
