Sugarcane Farmers' Protest at Kini Toll Plaza Enters Second Day
Farmers demand Rs 4,500 per tonne as first instalment, blocking the Pune-Bengaluru highway.
Protest led by Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana continues for a second day.
Traffic severely disrupted on the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway.
Farmers refuse to end the blockade until their demand is met.
The ongoing protest by sugarcane farmers at Kini Toll Plaza has entered its second day, with demonstrators maintaining their blockade of the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway. The farmers, organized by the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana, are demanding a first instalment payment of Rs 4,500 per tonne for their sugarcane. Despite the passage of 24 hours since the protest began, no resolution has been reached, and traffic remains heavily impacted.
The agitation commenced on Tuesday afternoon, spearheaded by former MP Raju Shetti. Hundreds of farmers from nearby regions joined the protest, spending the night on the highway. To support the participants, arrangements for tea, breakfast, and other meals were made at the protest site, showcasing the determination of the farmers to continue their fight.
Protesters have firmly stated that they will not withdraw their demands under any circumstances until the government agrees to their request for the Rs 4,500 payment. They have resolved to maintain the blockade until a satisfactory agreement is reached. Meanwhile, highway police have implemented traffic diversions at various points between Karad and Kagal, urging commuters to seek alternative routes to avoid delays.
In an effort to mediate the situation, Kolhapur District Collector Vijay Rathod is expected to intervene. Reports suggest that he has requested a proposal from local sugar mills regarding the farmers' demands. However, the proposed payment structure has yet to yield any significant progress, as farmers remain steadfast in their insistence on the Rs 4,500 per tonne instalment.
Looking ahead, the situation remains tense as farmers continue their protest. The outcome of the negotiations between the district administration and sugar mill representatives will be crucial in determining the next steps. The ongoing blockade is likely to affect traffic and transportation in the region until a resolution is achieved.
