Farmers in Punjab have announced a massive state-wide ‘Rail Roko’ (Rail Blockade) agitation for April 17. It is noteworthy that this movement will be conducted under the leadership of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. According to information provided by the farmers’ organizations, this protest will take place from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, during which trains will be halted at various railway stations and tracks. Consequently, rail traffic is expected to be disrupted due to this agitation. The farmers stated that recent unseasonal rains and hailstorms have caused severe damage to several crops, including wheat. Despite this, the government has not yet initiated the wheat procurement process smoothly. The farmers allege that their produce has been lying in the *mandis* (markets) for a prolonged period; however, neither is timely procurement taking place, nor are they receiving a fair price for their crops, leading to a continuous escalation of their financial hardships.
The farmers assert that they are facing immense difficulties due to stringent conditions and delays. Their primary demands include the immediate commencement of wheat procurement and a relaxation of the rules governing the procurement process. The farmers’ organizations have issued a warning that if their demands are not met, the agitation will be further intensified. Meanwhile, passengers are advised to exercise caution and plan their train journeys carefully on April 17, as they may otherwise face significant inconvenience.
