Potholed Bhagatanwala road likely to delay procurement: Arhtiyas

The arthiyas at the Bhagatanwala grain market have raised concerns about the poor condition of the road leading to the market, citing it as a major issue ahead of the upcoming wheat harvesting season. With the wheat harvest expected to begin around April 15, the arthiyas are urging the authorities concerned to get the damaged road repaired to facilitate smooth transportation of grains.

The road leading to the Bhagatanwala grain market is full of potholes, while the road has completely worn off at other places, which can cause difficulties to tractor-trailers carrying tonnes of wheat. Local officials have expressed concern that the poor road conditions could lead to delays in wheat procurement, which may impact farmers and traders.

The arthiyas further said that though the Punjab Government had assured that arrangements were in place for wheat procurement and that the Mandi Board was prepared to handle the influx of grains, but it had forgot about the road which the farmers would use to bring their produce to the market.

The Bhagatanwala grain market is the biggest for procurement of grains in the district, and its infrastructure plays a crucial role in the procurement process. The market has faced issues with garbage disposal and maintenance, which may affect the quality of grains and the overall procurement process.

The arhtiyas stated that harvesting of wheat would begin after Baisakhi. “The entire produce would arrive in the markets within a span of seven to ten days. If the tractors remained stuck on the road due to traffic jams, the entire process would be affected,” said Jaspal Singh, a commission agent.

Amritsar