Traffic has partially resumed on the Pune–Bengaluru National Highway (NH-48) after farmers called off their 28-hour blockade at Hattargi. Currently, one side of the highway is open to traffic, while both sides are expected to be operational by midnight, subject to the situation on the ground.
The farmers have shifted their agitation from the highway blockade to a foot march towards Hubballi, where they plan to protest near the residence of Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and draw the Centre’s attention to their demands.
The blockade, which began at around 10 am on Tuesday at Hattargi, disrupted traffic on the busy highway for nearly 28 hours. Commuters and transport operators faced considerable inconvenience, with motorists advised to use alternative routes during the protest.
Farmers shift protest to foot march
The farmers are demanding a sugarcane price of ₹5,500 per tonne, an increase in the minimum selling price of sugar to ₹50 per kg, and higher prices for ethanol. The agitation intensified at Hattargi, Hirebagewadi and Kognoli toll plazas along the Karnataka–Maharashtra border.
Farmer organisations had resorted to blocking the highway after discussions with the Central Government failed to yield a concrete solution to their demands.
With the highway blockade called off, the protesters have decided to continue their agitation through a foot march towards Hubballi. As part of the planned route, the farmers are expected to halt at Kakati and proceed towards Hirebagewadi via Belagavi before continuing towards Hubballi.
Traffic restoration awaited
Although traffic has begun moving on one side of NH-48, the full restoration of traffic on both sides is expected by midnight. Motorists travelling between Pune and Bengaluru should remain alert for possible diversions and congestion as the farmers continue their march.
The end of the highway blockade has eased the immediate disruption, but the farmers’ agitation remains underway, with the protesters seeking action on their demands from the Central Government.