The Bharatiya Janata Party encounters serious political difficulties in Punjab. Punjab BJP faces challenges over Chandigarh due to controversial proposals from the central leadership. Additionally, recent changes at Panjab University have damaged the party’s reputation significantly.

Central leadership recently suggested administrative changes for Chandigarh. However, many party members believe these decisions ignored local sentiments completely. Consequently, they worry this approach harms their efforts to expand support in the state. Moreover, local leaders feel frustrated because central decisions undermine their grassroots work.

During a Sunday meeting, one BJP leader expressed strong frustration. They stated that the damage had already occurred despite canceling the bill. Furthermore, the leader explained that public perception suffered greatly. Even though central leadership decided against passing the bill in the next session, the harm has been done.

This pattern repeats itself frequently in Punjab politics. Previously, the party faced severe backlash during farmers’ protests. Similarly, those demonstrations revealed a clear disconnect between central policies and local needs. Therefore, many observers see this as an ongoing problem rather than an isolated incident.

Another senior leader emphasized the importance of local consultation. They argued that seeking feedback from the state unit could have prevented this crisis. Additionally, the leader noted that Punjab differs fundamentally from other Indian states. Consequently, the region requires unique political approaches and governance strategies.

Changes to Panjab University’s Senate and Syndicate created additional problems. Students and community groups felt excluded from important decisions. Meanwhile, critics accused the party of implementing changes without proper consultation. This controversy further weakened BJP’s position in Punjab.

One party member described their situation using a popular saying. They stated, “Na khaya, na piya, gilass tora barah aana.” This phrase means suffering losses without gaining any benefits. Indeed, it perfectly captures the party’s current predicament in the state.

The farmers’ protests of 2020-2021 severely impacted BJP’s image in Punjab. During those demonstrations, thousands of farmers opposed agricultural reform laws. Subsequently, the government repealed these laws, but trust remained damaged. This history makes current missteps even more costly politically.

Punjab’s political landscape differs significantly from other states. The region has a strong regional identity and distinct cultural values. Furthermore, historical events shape political preferences deeply. Therefore, national parties must adapt their strategies carefully when operating in Punjab.

Party members hope for improved communication moving forward. They believe regular consultations between central and state leadership can rebuild trust. Moreover, understanding local concerns helps create better policies. Additionally, including grassroots voices in decision-making strengthens party unity.

The upcoming winter session creates opportunities for course correction. Leaders suggest that active dialogue can repair damaged relationships. Similarly, acknowledging mistakes publicly might restore some credibility. However, actions speak louder than words in rebuilding public confidence.

Punjab BJP faces challenges over Chandigarh that highlight broader governance issues. Moving forward, the party must prioritize local consultation and respect regional sentiments. Ultimately, successful politics requires listening to people’s voices and understanding their unique concerns before making major decisions.

A major infrastructure project remains stuck in bureaucratic hurdles. The Zirakpur-Panchkula Bypass project faces delays even after receiving cabinet approval over seven months ago. This Rs 1,878 crore project aims to ease chronic traffic congestion on NH-5 and NH-7.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Forest Department continue disputing the delay. Currently, NHAI has rescheduled online bid submissions to December 20 at 11 am. Subsequently, technical bids will open on December 22. However, work cannot begin without crucial Stage-2 forest clearance.

The project received Stage-1 forest approval on July 31, 2023. Nevertheless, final Stage-2 approval remains pending. Forest officials claim NHAI still needs to fulfill certain requirements. These include submitting NoC documents, undertakings, and tree plantation details to the District Forest Officer.

Conversely, NHAI strongly disagrees with this explanation. Officials state they completed all formalities long ago. A senior NHAI representative explained they met every condition mandated in Stage-1 approval. Despite repeated reminders, Stage-2 approval stays stuck with the Forest Department.

This bypass forms an important part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. The initiative focuses on improving infrastructure and connectivity across India. Moreover, the project will divert heavy interstate and local traffic away from congested Zirakpur and Panchkula areas.

Planning for this project started over a decade ago. Authorities completed land acquisition back in 2020. The 19.2 km bypass will connect the Zirakpur-Patiala junction on NH-7 to the Zirakpur-Parwanoo junction on NH-5.

The design includes impressive features. First, engineers plan a six-lane road throughout. Second, a 6.195 km elevated section will improve traffic flow. Third, five flyovers will handle intersections efficiently. Additionally, the project includes one vehicular underpass, nine light vehicular underpasses, and one railway overbridge.

Furthermore, the bypass will significantly reduce congestion at critical points. These include Zirakpur lights, Airport Road entry, and Panchkula gateway. It will also enhance connectivity to Sectors 24 and 25. Similarly, improved access to Himachal Pradesh will benefit interstate travelers.

Meanwhile, residents face daily challenges. Traffic jams persist during peak hours, causing frustration and wasted time. Consequently, pollution levels continue rising in the region. The lack of infrastructure improvements affects quality of life significantly.

Officials now estimate construction may begin only by early 2026. Work likely cannot start before March or April, provided clearance arrives soon. This extended timeline disappoints many stakeholders and local residents.

The project’s importance cannot be overstated. Tricity’s population keeps growing rapidly, increasing vehicle numbers daily. Therefore, better road infrastructure becomes increasingly urgent. Experts suggest the bypass could reduce travel time by 30-40 minutes during rush hours.

The Zirakpur-Panchkula Bypass project faces delays that impact thousands of commuters daily. Both departments must resolve their differences quickly. Only then can this essential project move forward and bring much-needed relief to the region’s severe traffic problems.