Farmers’ Protest Blocks Mumbai-Agra Highway in Dhar, Demanding Fair Crop Prices and Policy Reforms

Dhar: Farmers from four districts have staged a protest at the Khalghat Toll Plaza on the Mumbai–Agra Highway, disrupting traffic and raising their demands for fair crop prices and reforms in agricultural export policies.

Organized under the banner of the National Kisan Mazdoor Sangh, farmers from Dhar, Barwani, Khargone, and Khandwa arrived early morning with tractors, pickups, and private vehicles to set up their demonstration. At the protest site, participants are engaged in a collective recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa, creating a calm but resolute atmosphere.

Police on high alert
Authorities have deployed significant police forces as a precautionary measure. SP Mayank Awasthi and Additional SP Vijay Dawar have been stationed at the toll plaza since last night to monitor the situation. Police teams are positioned at both ends of the highway to maintain order and prevent any escalation. Officials confirmed that the protest remains peaceful, and continuous dialogue is ongoing with the farmers.

Traffic management measures
Due to the protest, one lane of the four-lane highway has been blocked, while long queues of tractors occupy the other lane. To minimize traffic disruptions, authorities have implemented route diversions for vehicles. The highway, which sees millions of vehicles daily, could have experienced severe congestion if not for these precautionary measures.

Farmers have also alleged that police stopped several vehicles en route to prevent more participants from joining, but the police clarified that they are ensuring smooth traffic flow on the open lanes.

The protest highlights the ongoing grievances of farmers over agricultural pricing and policy issues, as authorities continue discussions to address their demands.