Bharat Bandh today: Who is behind it? Timing, restrictions & impact

Who is behind it?
The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), part of SKM, has called for Bharat Bandh today. It is being supported by many organisations such as Noida-based Bharatiya Kisan Parishad (BKP) as well as the Congress party. BKU leader Pawan Khatana said during the Bharat Bandh called by his union, farmers have been asked to strike their work for one day in order to press the government for demands. The farmers' leader said the protesters would stay put in their areas and not march towards Delhi.

Timing and duration:
The Bandh is scheduled from 6am to 4pm on February 16, with farmers planning massive chakka jams on main roads from 12pm to 4pm.

Impact:
The Bandh is expected to disrupt routes in Punjab for four hours, leading to potential diversions and delays. Delhi NCR borders, particularly Singhu, Ghazipur, and Tikri, are also anticipated to face significant traffic disruptions. This could pose challenges for commuters entering the national capital. Transportation, agricultural activities, and various rural institutions are likely to remain closed. However, essential services such as ambulance operations, newspaper distribution, and medical shops are expected to continue unaffected.


Restrictions in Noida:
To manage the situation, the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police announced the enforcement of CrPC Section 144, prohibiting unauthorized public assemblies. Commuters are advised to use the metro rail service to avoid inconvenience, as additional checks will be conducted at border points with Delhi. Traffic diversions are expected, and the police are prepared to manage any resulting congestion by redirecting traffic through internal roads.