Farmers' protest disrupts 17 train services in Ferozepur on Lakhimpur Kheri Anniversary
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur, October 3, 2024: A two-hour 'rail roko' protest led by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha today disrupted 17 train services in the Ferozepur rail division. The protest, which commenced at 12:30 PM, was staged at approximately 33 locations, leading to several trains being diverted.
This demonstration marks the third anniversary of the tragic Lakhimpur Kheri incident, during which eight people, including four farmers, lost their lives during protests against the now-repealed farm laws in 2021. Farmers are demanding a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on all crops, loan waivers, the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, and justice for the victims of the Lakhimpur Kheri tragedy.
The 17 trains disrupted in Ferozepur rail division at their destinations are – Train No. 01612 at Golewala, 04997 Ferozshah, 04464 Dhuri, 12479 and 20847 Ludhana, 06936 Pathankot, 05005 Jaisalmer City, 14674 and 19612 Amritsar, 12920 Moga, 11077 Pathankot Cantt, 06949 Kandrai, 06966 Ferozepur Cantt, 124767 Maler Kotla, 04597 Nowshera, 06941 Patti and 19224 at Kapurthala.
Despite the widespread disruptions, no trains were cancelled. The railway administration, in coordination with security personnel, managed the situation effectively by diverting trains to alternate routes. Information about the affected trains was continuously provided to ensure passengers were well-informed. Additionally, special assistance was arranged at impacted stations to minimize inconvenience.