Mohali: The ongoing farmers’ Pucca Morcha at the Chandigarh-Mohali border has triggered anxiety among Chandigarh residents, with many fearing that the protest could turn into a prolonged road blockade similar to the farmers’ protests at Sindhu and Shambhu borders and the ongoing Quami Insaf Morcha.The concern has intensified after several videos and reels circulating on social media showed farmers asserting that they would continue their dharna indefinitely if talks with the Punjab govt fail. The statements have raised questions among residents over whether the present protest will remain temporary or eventually result in a prolonged disruption of traffic and connectivity.Residents are particularly worried because a road near Dolphin Crossing on the Chandigarh-Mohali border has remained shut for nearly three years due to the Quami Insaf Morcha. They fear that a similar situation could emerge at the present protest site, affecting daily commuters and people travelling towards the airport.Resident P S Bedi said the uncertainty over the duration of the protest was a major concern for commuters. “I want to know whether the road towards the airport will remain accessible if the farmers decide to continue their protest. We have already seen how roads can remain closed for years because of prolonged morchas. We fear that this protest could also take a similar course.”Another resident, Amit Garg, said any prolonged blockade would create serious inconvenience for Chandigarh residents. “If the talks with the government fail, there is a fear that this place could also be occupied permanently, like the protest sites at Shambhu, Sindhu and the Quami Insaf Morcha. The administration should make it clear whether the road will remain open for normal traffic.”The apprehension has also grown following remarks by SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal, who indicated that the Pucca Morcha could continue beyond Sept 7 if talks with the Punjab govt do not take place or fail. Rajewal has also said that the farmers have arrived with ration supplies sufficient for two months.For residents, the key concern remains whether the present Pucca Morcha will remain a short-term protest or evolve into another prolonged occupation, with the possibility of sustained traffic restrictions at an important Chandigarh-Mohali entry point.Administration says status quo to be maintainedThe Mohali administration, however, maintains that the situation will be handled while ensuring that law and order is not disturbed. A senior police official said,“We will be following the orders to maintain the law and order situation without disturbing the farmers. If they decide to continue with the morcha, action as per the situation will be taken.”
