Patna: A protest by tap-water maintenance workers at JP Golambar on Monday disrupted traffic in one of the key areas of the Bihar capital. A large number of workers gathered at the intersection and sat on the road while raising slogans over their long-pending demands.
The protesters have been holding a 22-day sit-in over a six-point charter of demands. With no resolution to their demands, they have now taken their protest onto the road, resulting in the closure of the route leading towards Fraser Road.
The large gathering and road blockade created a situation reminiscent of a major protest venue, with a significant police presence deployed around JP Golambar to maintain law and order.
Protesters Carry Tricolour
A large number of tap-water maintenance workers were seen sitting on the road near JP Golambar. Several protesters were carrying the Tricolour while participating in the demonstration.
The sudden gathering of a large number of workers led to increased activity in the area and affected normal traffic movement around the busy intersection.
22-Day Sit-In Intensifies
The workers have been protesting for the past 22 days over their six-point set of demands. Despite the prolonged sit-in, the protesters claim that their concerns have not yet been resolved.
Following the continued lack of a decision, the workers have intensified their agitation by moving from the sit-in to a road protest.
Rs 18,000 Honorarium Among Key Demands
One of the workers’ primary demands is an increase in their monthly honorarium to Rs 18,000.
The demand forms part of their six-point charter, which they want the state government to address at the earliest. The protesters have urged the government to take a positive decision on their demands and resolve the issue.
Fraser Road Route Closed
The protest at JP Golambar has led to the closure of the road towards Fraser Road. With protesters occupying the road, traffic movement through the route has been affected.
The blockade is also expected to impact traffic flow in surrounding areas, particularly given the importance of JP Golambar as a major traffic point in central Patna.
Heavy Police Force Deployed
A heavy police deployment has been made around JP Golambar in view of the protest. Police personnel are monitoring the situation while the workers continue their demonstration.
The agitation has now escalated from a 22-day sit-in to a road protest, putting pressure on the government to address the workers’ six-point demands, including the demand for a Rs 18,000 monthly honorarium. The next steps by the administration and the state government will determine how the ongoing protest unfold
