Punjab bandh: Kharar-Chandigarh highway blocked

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Bandh disrupts traffic and bus services, with schools, markets and rail routes also likely to be affected across Punjab.

Chandigarh, August 21

A Punjab bandh called by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha over the release of Sikh prisoners began on Friday, with its impact being reported in several parts of the state. The bandh has been announced from 7 am to 2 pm, with traffic, public transport and commercial activities affected in various areas.

The Kharar-Chandigarh Highway has been blocked as part of the bandh, while security arrangements have been tightened at the Chandigarh-Mohali border to maintain law and order.

Bus services have also been affected in Amritsar, causing inconvenience to passengers. Traffic movement on highways and other major routes is expected to remain disrupted during the bandh.

The bandh has also affected educational institutions in parts of Chandigarh and Mohali, with some schools were closed. The private schools’ association has also appealed to institutions to observe the closure. The Morcha has appealed to traders and commercial establishments to keep main markets, shopping malls, wholesale markets and other businesses closed during the bandh.

The Qaumi Insaaf Morcha is demanding the release of Sikh prisoners lodged in various jails. It has also sought parole for Jagtar Singh Hawara, who was convicted in the assassination case of former Punjab Chief Minister Beant Singh.

The bandh is likely to impact road and rail traffic, markets and public transport services across Punjab during the protest period.