Sutlej’s Fury: Farmers Block Highway, Governor Hit by River’s Wrath
Farmers from Ropar staged a massive road blockade on the Ropar-Chandigarh highway on Saturday, September 6, 2025, protesting the shifting course of the Sutlej river. The unexpected change threatens to inundate their agricultural lands.
The blockade caused significant traffic snarls, impacting commuters and even delaying the travel plans of the Punjab Governor. Frustration mounted among those stranded for hours.
The protesting farmers squarely blamed illegal encroachments along the riverbanks for the altered course. They are demanding immediate desilting of the Sutlej to restore its natural flow and protect their livelihoods.
Ropar district administration officials have initiated talks with the farmers to address their grievances. Discussions are underway to find a lasting solution that balances environmental concerns with the farmers’ needs.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of Punjab’s agrarian communities to environmental changes and the urgent need for effective river management strategies. The long-term impact on agriculture and the region’s economy remains a serious concern.
