Global Outlook

A  moderate gathering of protesting farmers and a strong police response aimed at preventing them from reaching Delhi led to significant traffic disruptions along the Noida Expressway and its connecting routes. Heavy barricading, diversions, road closures, border checks, and a sit-in demonstration created a commuting nightmare for thousands of commuters, with traffic crawling or coming to a standstill for much of the day. The focal point of the traffic gridlock was a 4km stretch from Mahamaya flyover to Noida Gate, affecting traffic for kilometers in both directions. Remya Singh, who was stuck in the traffic for over two hours while on her way to Delhi, described the experience as being "marooned in a sea of cars." The journey between Noida and Delhi took between 3 to 4 hours during the afternoon and evening. The repercussions of the protest in Noida extended to central Delhi, where heavy police deployment was observed amid reports of "splinter groups of 5-10 farmers...