MANDYA: The Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS) has called for a shutdown of the Bengaluru-Mysuru National Highway near the Gananguru toll plaza on October 23, demanding higher sugarcane prices and a complete waiver of farmers’ loans.
The farmers’ organisation said the proposed protest aims to put pressure on both the state and Union governments to address farmers’ long-pending demands. KRRS leader Badagalapura Nagendra said farmers would block the highway as part of the agitation.
The proposed blockade could affect traffic on the busy Bengaluru-Mysuru corridor, particularly around the Gananguru toll plaza in Mandya district.
Farmers demand higher sugarcane prices
A key demand behind the proposed protest is an increase in sugarcane prices. Farmers have been seeking better returns for their produce, citing the need to ensure that cultivation remains financially viable.
Sugarcane is an important commercial crop in several parts of Karnataka, and its price directly affects the income of farmers supplying cane to sugar factories. The price farmers receive and the payments made by sugar mills remain important issues in the relationship between growers and the sugar industry.
Through the planned highway blockade, KRRS intends to draw attention to the demand and press the state and Union governments to take action.
Complete farm loan waiver sought
The organisation has also demanded a complete waiver of farm loans. The demand forms part of its wider call for measures to ease the financial burden on farmers.
Agricultural households often face pressure from cultivation expenses, uncertain returns and repayment obligations. KRRS is seeking a comprehensive response from the governments rather than limited relief measures.
The proposed protest is intended to highlight these concerns and seek decisions on the farmers’ demands.
Highway blockade planned near Gananguru toll plaza
KRRS has identified the Bengaluru-Mysuru National Highway near the Gananguru toll plaza in Mandya as the location for the October 23 agitation.
The highway is an important road link between Bengaluru and Mysuru, carrying private vehicles, buses and commercial traffic. A blockade at the identified location could lead to delays for motorists travelling between the two cities.
Commuters planning to use the route on the day of the protest may need to monitor local traffic updates and any advisories issued by the police or district authorities.
The report did not specify the proposed duration of the blockade or announce alternative routes for motorists.
Governments urged to address farmers’ demands
KRRS has said the highway blockade is intended to push the state and Union governments to respond to the demands for higher sugarcane prices and a complete farm loan waiver.
Further details about the protest, including its timing and traffic arrangements, may be announced closer to October 23. Motorists travelling through Mandya should check for official updates before beginning their journeys.