Dangerous Roads in Panchkula

Panchkula struggles with dangerous roads, creating a big problem for the city and its residents. Between January and June 2025, 13 people lost their lives, and 15 more got hurt at ten accident blackspots. These spots are known for frequent mishaps, yet the city administration has not taken the needed actions to fix these issues.

Identified Accident Blackspots

The blackspots in Panchkula are:

• Sukhomajri Bypass
• HMT Gate
• Pinjore
• Surajpur bus stop
• Chandimandir toll plaza
• Shakti Dwar (Tank Chowk)
• Old Panchkula light point
• Majri Chowk
• Sector 6/7 light point
• Amartex Chowk
• Tau Devi Lal Stadium light point

These areas are known for being very dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike. Sadly, the local government has not done enough to make these roads safer.

The Situation at Chandimandir Light Point

One of the worst areas is the Chandimandir light point. This place has a history of accidents but lacks proper safety measures. There are no CCTV cameras to monitor the traffic. As a result, it is hard to know what happens during accidents.

The roads near Chandimandir are often blocked by mechanic shops and heavy vehicles parked illegally. This makes it hard for drivers to navigate safely. People often break the rules because no one is watching them closely.

Challenges at Majri Chowk

Another dangerous area is Majri Chowk. Here, vendors selling fruits are everywhere, and many bikes are parked without permission. This makes it difficult for people to cross the road safely.

At the Old Panchkula light point, taxi and auto drivers sit on the road waiting for passengers. This causes more traffic jams and risks accidents. According to a traffic police officer, there are violations of traffic rules because their challaning machines only work for two hours a day. This makes enforcement of laws very tough.

Dangers of Road Cuts

Besides the blackspots, many roads in Panchkula have cuts that act as junctions. These cuts lack blinking lights or traffic signals. For instance, the road that connects Sector 14 and the Industrial Area has many such cuts. Vehicles enter from both sides without caution. This creates a high risk of accidents, especially near Amartex Chowk and the Zirakpur-Kalka highway.

Community Concerns for Safety

The Federation of Residents’ Associations (FORA) is worried about these issues. They have asked for traffic lights at several junctions, including:

• Major Sandeep Chowk
• Bhagat Singh Chowk
• Udham Singh Chowk
• Geeta Chowk

FORA wants to keep pedestrians safe and reduce the chaos caused by fast-moving vehicles during busy times. The danger increases when there are many pedestrians near these busy areas.

Need for Action

Despite the suggestions from experts during road safety meetings, not much has improved. The attitude of the authorities shows a lack of urgency. To keep everyone safe, it is crucial to take action. Traffic lights, CCTV cameras, and stricter rules can save lives.

The people of Panchkula deserve safe roads. With the right steps, we can help prevent more accidents in the future. Everyone, including drivers, pedestrians, and local authorities, must work together. Safety should always come first! 🚦

Daily News

Punjab High Court Decision Provides Relief to Farmers

On Monday, the Punjab and Haryana High Court Allows Hybrid Paddy Seeds, making an important decision for farmers in Punjab. The court ruled that the Punjab government did not have the power to ban certain hybrid paddy seeds. This is a significant relief for both farmers and seed dealers.

The case revolved around a ban that the Punjab Agriculture Department enforced on April 7, 2025. This ban affected all hybrid and PUSA-44 varieties of paddy seeds in Punjab.

Details of the Court Ruling

A single bench led by Justice Kuldeep Tiwari heard three petitions challenging this ban. The court found that the hybrid seeds were “notified varieties” certified under the Seeds Act of 1966. The ruling stated that once a seed variety is notified under this act, it cannot be banned by state authorities.

Justice Tiwari explained, “The prohibition on notified kinds or varieties of hybrid seeds does not stand the test of legality. Such power rests exclusively with the authorities established under the 1966 Act.” This means that farmers can continue to use these hybrid seeds.

State’s Power on Non-Notified Seeds

The court did allow the Punjab government to control seeds that are not officially notified. Justice Tiwari pointed out, “Seeds that are not notified under the Act of 1966 do not enjoy legal sanctity. Hence, their prohibition in Punjab is justified.” This means that farmers should be careful about using non-notified seeds.

Background of the Ban

In April, the Punjab government announced a ban on the hybrid seeds. They said the ban was necessary because of environmental concerns. These included issues like delayed maturity and too much stubble left after harvesting. Farmers started to worry because they depend on these seeds for better yields.

The Punjab government claimed that they could enforce this ban because agriculture is a state topic. They referenced the East Punjab Improved Seeds and Seedlings Act of 1949 as their authority to regulate seed use. However, the court ruled otherwise.

Legal Conflict over Seed Regulation

The court stated that once the Central Seeds Act of 1966 was passed, it took precedence over the 1949 law. Justice Tiwari explained that the 1966 act provides a clear set of rules for seed regulation. Therefore, the state government cannot give conflicting orders about notified seed varieties.

Union Government’s Stance

The Union government weighed in on the matter, clarifying that to remove a seed variety from the notified list, it must only be done through the Central Seed Committee. This committee must also ensure that the original breeders have a chance to speak.

What Farmers Think

The court’s decision comes as farmers were facing uncertainty during a crucial planting season. Many farmers in Punjab rely on hybrid seeds because they mature faster and provide better profits. For example, hybrid seeds can yield an additional Rs 15,000 to Rs 16,000 per acre compared to traditional varieties.

Jaspal Singh, a farmer from Patiala, shared his thoughts: “Hybrid seeds give us Rs 15,000 to Rs 16,000 more per acre and mature faster. We were in a fix because of the ban, but the court removed that confusion. Though the cultivation period this year has passed, it will be helpful next year.”

Industry Reaction to the Verdict

The Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) welcomed the court’s decision. Chairman Ajai Rana expressed satisfaction, stating that it restored the role of science in agriculture. He noted that hybrid rice is known to yield 5-6 quintals more per acre compared to other varieties.

Rana added that hybrid rice uses 30% less water when using Direct Seeded Rice methods. This is important in a country where water is a precious resource.

“The recent episode highlights how hasty policy actions confuse farmers. These actions also limit their ability to grow high-yielding hybrids,” Rana said. He emphasized the need for decisions that are based on science. This ensures farmers have consistency and trust in the system.

Future of Seed Regulation in Punjab

The court’s ruling opens doors for farmers to use notified hybrid seeds freely. High Court Allows Hybrid Paddy Seeds, but keeps the door closed for non-notified ones. This means farmers can access certified hybrids, which are crucial for higher profits, while the state still holds the right to act against uncertified seeds.

Agricultural experts believe this decision is a win for Punjab’s farmers. It gives them access to tested seeds that are recognized nationally. These seeds can lead to better yields, conserve water, and ultimately improve the livelihoods of farmers in the region.

In conclusion, the Punjab High Court’s decision supports farmers and encourages the use of scientific methods in agriculture. The future looks bright as farmers now have clarity and support to grow hybrid paddy varieties while ensuring the quality of other seeds. 🌱

Daily News

Overview of the Case

A special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court recently declared a Chandigarh Head Constable Convicted in a bribery case dating back to 2017. The court’s decision came on a Monday under the supervision of CBI special judge Alka Malik.

Details of the Conviction

The head constable, Ram Kumar, violated sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and the court convicted him under Section 7 and Section 13(1)(d)(ii), with his sentence to be announced on August 20.

What Happened?

Ram Kumar was arrested on May 23, 2017. At that time, he was accepting a bribe of ₹10,000. The CBI had set a trap to catch him in the act. Kumar was working under Inspector Shadi Lal at the Sarangpur police station.

The Background of the Case

The story starts on March 3, 2017. A woman and her husband faced legal trouble after they attacked a family member named Guru Narain. The police launched an investigation at the Sarangpur police station, where Ram Kumar was the head constable in charge.

During the investigation, Kumar allegedly asked the complainant for a bribe of ₹18,000. However, they negotiated a lower amount of ₹10,000. When Kumar went to collect this money, the CBI arrived and caught him with the cash.

Impact of Corruption in Chandigarh

The conviction highlights serious issues of corruption in Chandigarh. Over recent years, the city has faced rising corruption and bribery cases within law enforcement. Various reports from watchdogs indicate that these issues are a significant problem in Punjab.

Interestingly, Chandigarh was once ranked as the cleanest city in India for several years. However, it slipped in these rankings in 2020. This change shows ongoing challenges in urban governance and public trust.

Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988

Lawmakers created the Prevention of Corruption Act to fight against corruption in public services across India. It seeks to ensure that public officials, like police officers, perform their duties fairly and without taking bribes. This law is crucial in maintaining transparency and honesty in government services.

What Happens Next?

Now, Ram Kumar, who was previously on bail, will remain in judicial custody until the sentence is given on August 20. His case serves as a reminder of the need for accountability among public officials.

Conclusion

Corruption undermines trust in law enforcement and public institutions. The recent case where a Chandigarh head constable convicted for bribery is a step towards addressing these issues. It is crucial for society to work together to combat corruption and ensure a fair system for all.

Daily News