Chandigarh: The Union Territory administration rolled out heightened security measures on Wednesday as the city braced for two large-scale mobilisations: a major assembly by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and a bandh called by Panjab University students pressing for the announcement of Senate election dates.
With combined footfall from both demonstrations anticipated to overwhelm routine traffic, the UT police deployed close to 3,000 personnel across Chandigarh. Barricades were set up at crucial junctions, and several traffic diversions were announced to regulate the movement of vehicles through the day.
Officials said more than 10,000 farmers from Punjab were expected to gather at the Sector-43 Dussehra Ground, where the SKM is holding a nationwide protest to mark five years since the “Delhi Chalo” agitation of 2020. The crowd was expected to build steadily from the morning hours, with most participants arriving via Mohali, prompting additional checks and traffic regulation along the entry routes.
Senior police officers instructed ground teams to begin deployment well before peak hours to prevent congestion around the protest venue. Mobile units, PCR vans and reserve teams were positioned strategically to manage any sudden surge in movement.
Meanwhile, the bandh call by Panjab University students added to operational concerns, with police anticipating clusters of demonstrations around the campus and adjoining areas. Although authorities said they were prepared for simultaneous mobilisations, residents were advised to avoid non-essential travel and use alternative routes where possible.
By mid-morning, security officials reported steady but controlled movement, crediting the advance planning and coordination between multiple wings of the administration. The police said they would continue to monitor the situation closely through the day.
