Bharat Bandh Cripples Banking and Transport in Punjab
A nationwide strike, known as Bharat Bandh, has brought banking and transport services to a standstill across Punjab, leading to significant disruptions in daily life and economic activities. The protest, organized by various trade unions and farmer groups, has seen widespread participation, affecting key sectors and causing inconvenience to the public.
Banking Operations Grind to a Halt
Banking services across Punjab have been severely impacted, with many branches remaining closed and ATMs running dry. Employees from public sector banks joined the strike, leading to a complete shutdown of financial transactions in several areas. This has affected everything from routine deposits and withdrawals to loan processing and government schemes, leaving customers stranded and businesses struggling to manage cash flow.
Key banking disruptions include:
- Closure of major bank branches in cities like Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Jalandhar.
- Limited ATM functionality, with many machines out of service due to lack of cash replenishment.
- Delays in cheque clearances and electronic fund transfers, hampering commercial activities.
Transport Services Paralyzed
Public transport services have been heavily disrupted, with buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws staying off the roads in solidarity with the bandh. This has led to chaos for commuters, especially in urban centers where reliance on public transport is high. Private vehicle movement has also been affected in some regions due to protest blockades and road closures.
Notable transport issues reported:
- State-run bus services, including Punjab Roadways, were largely suspended, stranding thousands of passengers.
- Goods transportation faced delays, impacting supply chains for essential commodities and industrial goods.
- Protesters staged sit-ins on highways, causing traffic snarls and longer travel times.
Wider Impact and Public Response
The Bharat Bandh has not only hit banking and transport but also affected other sectors like education and small businesses, with many shops and markets remaining shut. The strike is part of broader demands by unions, including calls for better wages, farmer support, and opposition to certain government policies. While some citizens expressed support for the protest causes, others voiced frustration over the disruption to daily routines and economic losses.
Authorities have deployed additional police forces to maintain law and order, but no major incidents of violence have been reported so far. The bandh is expected to continue for the day, with normalcy likely to resume gradually once the strike concludes.
