Chandigarh: In a historic and transformative move for the agricultural sector of Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has announced an ambitious infrastructure project to shift overhead electricity wires entirely underground across agricultural lands. This landmark initiative aims to tackle long-standing safety, operational, and environmental challenges faced by the state's farming community.

To demonstrate the government’s direct commitment to the grassroots level, the pilot phase of this massive underground wiring project is set to be personally inaugurated by Chief Minister Mann from his native village of Satauj in the Sangrur district.

Freedom From Hazardous Overhead Cables and Poles

For decades, traditional overhead electricity networks have posed a recurring nightmare for Punjab's farmers. High-voltage cables crisscrossing agricultural fields not only restrict the seamless movement of heavy farming machinery, like combine harvesters and tractors, but also lead to catastrophic financial losses every year.

During the dry harvest season, loose or sparking overhead wires often trigger sudden field fires, wiping out acres of ready-to-reap wheat and paddy crops within minutes. By eliminating electricity poles and burying the power infrastructure securely beneath the ground, the Punjab government aims to completely eliminate these accidental fires and provide a permanently clean, unobstructed topography for cultivation.

Enhanced Safety and Uninterrupted Daytime Power Supply

The primary objective of the transition is to elevate safety protocols in rural zones. Overhead lines are highly susceptible to severe weather conditions, causing wires to snap during heavy monsoon winds and storms, which frequently leads to fatal electrocution accidents involving both farmers and livestock. Shifting the transmission network underground will shield it from external weather disruptions, ensuring a more stable, hazard-free environment.

Furthermore, this infrastructure overhaul complements the state’s ongoing agricultural reforms. The Chief Minister highlighted that the government has already successfully optimized the power grid to supply free, uninterrupted electricity to farmers during daytime hours instead of the night. This has removed the grueling and dangerous task of nocturnal irrigation, allowing farmers to tend to their crops safely during daylight.

Statewide Rollout Plan and Synergy with Water Conservation

The initiative is designed as a phased strategic rollout. Following the initial pilot launch in Satauj village, the state authorities will closely monitor the functionality, distribution efficiency, and resilience of the underground grid. Upon successful completion of the trial phase, the model will be systematically scaled up to cover all rural and agricultural zones across Punjab.

This electricity grid modernization runs parallel to the state's aggressive water conservation campaigns. The Bhagwant Mann-led administration has recently overstretched efforts to revitalize Punjab’s ancient canal networks, encouraging farmers to shift away from heavily depleting tube wells to sustainable canal-based irrigation. By modernizing both water and electricity delivery channels, the government intends to future-proof Punjab's agricultural economy.

In a sudden turn of events, the Union Territory of Chandigarh is facing a significant fuel supply crunch, prompting authorities and fuel station operators to impose strict limits on the purchase of petrol and diesel. Long queues have been witnessed across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula (Tri-city) as panicked motorists rushed to fill up their tanks, fearing a complete dry-out.

Why Has the Fuel Limit Been Imposed?

The primary driver behind this sudden rationing is the nationwide strike by truck, tanker, and public transport drivers.

• The Cause: Drivers are protesting against the stringent new hit-and-run provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

• The Impact: The strike has severely disrupted the supply chain, halting the movement of fuel tankers from major bulk depots to local petrol pumps.

Because replenishment supplies are blocked, the District Magistrate and oil marketing companies in Chandigarh have taken precautionary measures to stretch the existing fuel reserves as long as possible, ensuring emergency services remain operational.

What Are the Purchase Limits?

To manage the panic buying and distribute the remaining stock equitably, strict limits have been placed on fuel dispensing per vehicle. While the exact limits can vary slightly depending on the specific petrol pump's remaining stock, the generally enforced caps

• Two-Wheelers (Scooters/Bikes)Up to ₹200 to ₹500 worth of fuelFour-Wheelers (Cars/SUVs)Restricted to 4 to 5 liters (or max ₹1,000 to ₹1,500)Commercial VehiclesStrictly regulated based on essential status

Ground Reality and Public Inconvenience

The decision has led to widespread chaos across the Tri-city area. Many petrol pumps have already put up "Dry" or "No Stock" boards, forcing commuters to drive from one station to another. The open stations are experiencing massive traffic jams, with waiting times stretching from 30 minutes to over two hours.

Local authorities have appealed to the public to maintain peace and avoid panic buying, assuring them that efforts are being made to resolve the supply bottleneck with transport unions. However, until the truckers' strike is called off or alternative transit arrangements are secured, the restrictions are expected to remain in place.

The Punjab Chemists Association (PCA), in alignment with the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), has officially called for a complete shutdown of all medical stores and chemist shops across Punjab on May 20, 2026.

This 24-hour statewide strike is part of a larger nationwide protest aimed at opposing the unregulated growth of e-pharmacies, corporate monopolies, and certain government drug policies that traditional chemists claim are hurting their livelihoods and compromising public health.

Reasons Behind the Strike

The pharmacy owners and wholesale distributors have highlighted several core issues that triggered this drastic measure:

• Protest Against Online E-Pharmacies: Chemists are raising serious concerns over the unchecked expansion of online drug delivery platforms. They argue that e-pharmacies heavily distort fair competition by offering predatory corporate discounts, making it virtually impossible for small brick-and-mortar medical stores to survive.

• Public Health and Drug Safety Risks: The PCA emphasized that medicines are not ordinary commodities. Selling medicines online door-to-door without proper verification often leads to the misuse of prescription-only drugs. They warned that AI-generated or repeated use of old prescriptions on digital apps is fueling drug misuse, especially antibiotic resistance and habit-forming substance abuse among youth.

• Abolition of Pandemic-Era Notifications: The association is demanding the immediate withdrawal of certain relaxation notifications (like GSR 220(E)) issued during the COVID-19 pandemic, which they claim are currently being misused to bypass the stringent safety provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules.

• Local Grievances with State Authorities: At the state level, the PCA has voiced discontent over the lack of communication from the Punjab government. They have also requested a systematic check on government Jan Aushadhi stores and demanded an end to the unnecessary harassment of local chemists by police personnel during drug inspections.

The Protest Schedule and Impact on Patients

To ensure their voice reaches the authorities, the chemists have planned a phased protest:

• May 15 to May 19: As a symbolic protest leading up to the strike, retail and wholesale chemists across Punjab will wear black badges on their uniforms.

• May 20 (Midnight to Midnight): A complete 24-hour shutdown of all retail and wholesale chemist shops will take place across all districts of Punjab, including major hubs like Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala.

Note for Patients: While wholesale markets and local retail shops will remain completely closed, the association has assured that alternative arrangements for emergency medicines will be available at specific locations and hospital-attached pharmacies so that critical healthcare services are not entirely paralyzed. However, citizens are strongly advised to purchase their essential and routine medications in advance to avoid any inconvenience.

 Chandigarh / Punjab

In a progressive and environmentally conscious move, a new directive has been introduced requiring Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) in Punjab to commute to their offices by bicycle two days a week. This innovative initiative is designed to achieve a multifaceted goal: promoting physical fitness among senior police personnel, reducing the carbon footprint of the police department, and fostering a closer, more approachable connection between law enforcement and the general public.

Leading by Example: The Core Objectives

The decision marks a significant shift in the daily routines of senior police officials, who traditionally rely on heavy official vehicles and cavalcades for their daily commute. By stepping out of their cars and onto bicycles, SPs and DSPs are setting a healthy and eco-friendly precedent for their subordinates and the public alike. The primary objectives of this initiative include:

• Promoting Health and Fitness: The demanding, high-stress nature of police work often leaves little time for a structured fitness regime. Incorporating cycling into their weekly routine ensures that senior officers maintain optimal cardiovascular health and physical agility. It sends a strong message across the ranks that personal fitness is a non-negotiable aspect of serving in the police force.

• Environmental Conservation: With growing concerns over vehicular pollution and deteriorating air quality, the police department is taking actionable steps to reduce its carbon footprint. Minimizing the use of fuel-consuming official vehicles for two days a week will significantly cut down on emissions and save on government fuel expenditure, contributing to a cleaner, greener Punjab.

• Enhancing Community Policing: Officers commuting by bicycle are inherently more visible and accessible than those traveling in official cars with tinted windows. This ground-level approach is expected to bridge the gap between the police and the citizens. It encourages impromptu public interactions, builds grassroots trust, and enhances the overall effectiveness of community policing efforts.

Operational Details and Exemptions

While the exact cycling days may be coordinated at the local district level to ensure that operational efficiency is never compromised, the mandate requires strict adherence for at least two working days per week. The directive primarily applies to routine administrative office commutes and non-emergency field visits within a reasonable local radius.

To ensure public safety remains the top priority, exemptions are strictly in place. During emergency response situations, sudden law and order crises, night patrolling, or specialized VIP security duties, officers will continue to utilize their rapid-mobility police vehicles.

Alignment with Regional Sustainability Goals

This move by the Punjab Police aligns perfectly with broader regional efforts in the Tricity area to promote sustainable transport. Just days prior, the neighboring Panchkula police launched a similar green commute plan encouraging their staff to use bicycles and carpool. Similarly, the Chandigarh Administration has pushed for fuel-saving measures, encouraging government employees to ditch their cars on Wednesdays. By specifically involving its higher-ranking commanding officers, the Punjab Police adds significant administrative weight and visibility to this eco-friendly movement.

Public and Departmental Response

The announcement has garnered widespread appreciation from environmentalists, fitness enthusiasts, and civil society. Citizens view this as a refreshing, modern change that demystifies the aura of inaccessibility often associated with senior police officials. Within the department itself, junior ranks are feeling inspired by the top-down approach, with many constables, head constables, and inspectors expressing a willingness to voluntarily join the cycling initiative alongside their commanding officers.

As the wheels start turning on this new policy, it is highly anticipated that other government administrative departments may soon follow suit, paving the way for a healthier, greener, and more connected governance model in Punjab.

Chandigarh: In a significant breakthrough against organized crime and gang culture, a joint operation by the Chandigarh Police, Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), and local district units has led to the arrest of four dreaded shooters. The apprehended individuals are closely associated with the notorious Doni Bal and Davinder Bambiha gang network.

According to top police officials, the arrested individuals were behind the high-profile firing incident targeting a prominent student leader at Panjab University (PU) campus. Police have recovered three sophisticated automatic weapons, live cartridges, and a getaway vehicle from their possession. Notably, one of the arrested individuals is a proclaimed offender (PO) and a long-time fugitive from the law.

The Campus Shootout: Targeting the SOPU Leader

The arrest traces back to a brazen shooting incident on March 17 inside the Panjab University campus during the annual "Jhankaar" student festival. The shooters targeted Jashanpreet Singh Jawanda, a prominent leader of the Students’ Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU).

Four assailants arrived on a stolen Honda Activa scooter near the Department of Botany and opened fire at Jawanda. Although the student leader managed to run and narrowly escape unhurt, the attackers chased him and fired multiple rounds, sending shockwaves across the university.

Following the attack, a social media post allegedly uploaded by the Davinder Bambiha gang claimed responsibility. The post openly declared that Jawanda was targeted on the directions of gangsters Shaganpreet and Doni Bal because of his alleged proximity to rival Lawrence Bishnoi-linked factions, revealing a bitter gang rivalry infiltrating student politics.

High-Drama Encounter and Major Arrests

Following intensive technical surveillance and tracking across multiple locations including Chandigarh, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Amloh, the police zeroed in on the suspects.

The main shooter, identified as Jaspreet Singh alias Jas (also known as Jass Panaich), a resident of Kheri Noudh Singh, was intercepted on the Amloh-Patran road. In a desperate bid to escape, the accused opened fire at the police party. The police retaliated in self-defense, injuring Jaspreet in the leg before successfully overpowering him. He was immediately shifted to a hospital under tight security.

Following his interrogation, successive raids led to the arrest of three of his close accomplices. Among the arrested is a seasoned fugitive who had been evading the police for months in connection with separate heinous crimes.

Recoveries Made by the Police:

• 3 Automatic/Country-made Weapons (including .32 bore pistols)

• Multiple live cartridges and empty shells

• A Hyundai Creta car used for harboring the criminals

• A stolen motorcycle used during their escape route

The Dramatic Escape Route

Investigation revealed that after firing shots at the PU campus, the accused hit a dead end near a temple in Sector 14. They abandoned their scooter, entered the temple premises, and threatened the resident priest at gunpoint. Later, they fled toward Sector 25, where they snatched a Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle from a couple at gunpoint to escape the city limits.

Police Statements and Future Course of Action

Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav stated that the timely arrest has averted further bloodshed and potential retaliatory gang wars in the region.

"Preliminary investigations confirm that these shooters were acting directly at the behest of foreign and jail-based handlers of the Doni Bal and Bambiha syndicate. We are now establishing the backward and forward linkages to trace the source of these automatic weapons," the DGP said.

Amritsar: A shocking incident has sent waves of panic and disbelief through Amritsar after a young woman allegedly shot her own father following a heated domestic dispute. According to local police and initial reports, the violent altercation erupted after the father refused to fulfill the daughter’s persistent demands to be sent to Australia for studies and relocation.

The incident, which took place within the jurisdiction of the local police, has sparked widespread concern over the growing desperation among youth to migrate abroad, alongside critical questions surrounding domestic gun safety and mental health.

The Dispute Over Foreign Relocation

The craze for moving abroad, particularly to countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK, is deeply entrenched in many parts of Punjab. However, this desire took a tragic and violent turn in Amritsar.

According to family members and neighbors, the young woman had been pressuring her father for a significant period to finance her relocation and studies in Australia. The father, facing undisclosed constraints—possibly financial or logistical—expressed his inability to send her abroad at this time.

The refusal reportedly triggered an intense argument between the duo. In a fit of rage, the daughter managed to get hold of a firearm present in the house and fired at her father, leaving him severely injured.

Panic Grips the Locality

The sound of gunfire echoing from the residence immediately caused panic throughout the neighborhood. Neighbors rushed to the scene and alerted the local authorities. The father was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where medical professionals are currently treating him. His condition is being closely monitored by both doctors and law enforcement officials.

Police personnel arrived at the crime scene shortly after the incident to secure the area, recover the weapon, and initiate a forensic examination.

Family’s Claims: "Mental Health Status Instable"

In a bid to contextualize the extreme step taken by the young woman, the distressed family has come forward stating that her mental health has been highly unstable. Relatives told the media and investigating officers that she had been undergoing severe psychological distress and behavioral issues, which peaked during her obsession with migrating to Australia.

The family has appealed to the public and authorities to view the incident through the lens of a mental health crisis rather than purely premeditated criminal intent.

Police Investigation Underway

The Amritsar Police have registered a case and are investigating the matter from multiple angles. Key areas of the ongoing investigation include:

• Source of the Weapon: Investigating whether the firearm used in the shooting was a legally licensed weapon belonging to the father or an illegal firearm.

• Verifying Mental Health Claims: Police are reviewing medical histories and consulting psychological experts to authenticate the family's claims regarding the woman's mental instability.

• Statements: Detailed statements are being recorded from family members, neighbors, and the victim (as soon as he is medically fit to speak).

The "Foreign Dream" and Youth Desperation

Socio-economic experts point out that this incident highlights a darker, high-pressure underbelly of the "foreign dream" among Punjabi youth. The immense psychological pressure to migrate, combined with underlying mental health vulnerabilities, can occasionally culminate in extreme behavioral outbursts if expectations are not met.

Further updates on the father’s medical condition and the legal charges filed against the daughter are awaited as the Amritsar Police proceed with their formal investigation.

Sangrur / Bhawanigarh: Reeling under the intense summer heat and unscheduled power outages, farmers in Sangrur district staged a massive protest today. Expressing heavy resentment against the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) and the state government, members of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) laid siege to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) office in Bhawanigarh.

The Protest at Bhawanigarh SDO Office

The protest was spearheaded by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Dakaunda - Burjgill faction). Hundreds of farmers gathered outside the Bhawanigarh SDO office, effectively blocking its operations. The dharna (sit-in protest) was addressed by several prominent union leaders, including State Vice President Gurmeet Singh Bhattiwal, District President Karam Singh Balyal, Block President Chamkaur Singh Bhattiwal, and Buddh Singh Balad.

Crops and Irrigation Taking a Hit

The primary grievance of the agitating farmers was the severe disruption of agricultural activities due to a lack of electricity.

• Water Crisis for Crops: Farmer leaders highlighted that green fodder and other seasonal crops urgently require water during the scorching summer months.

• Failed Promises: The protesters criticized the Punjab government, stating that despite official claims of providing uninterrupted power, rural areas are facing massive and continuous cuts, leading to direct crop damage and financial losses.

• 

Demands and the Ultimatum

The farmers issued a stern warning to the administration, declaring that the gherao (blockade) of the office would not be lifted until their demand for a continuous, uninterrupted power supply for their tubewells and villages was strictly met. They emphasized that the farming community should not have to pay the price for administrative lapses.

Resolution and Assurances

The tense situation was eventually defused after the intervention of power utility officials.

• Raghvir Singh, SDO of the nearby Gharachon division, reached the protest site to hold talks with the union leaders.

• He provided a firm assurance that the unannounced power cuts would be halted and reliable electricity supply would be restored.

• Following this official commitment, the BKU leaders agreed to conclude the sit-in protest.

In Related News: BKU Ugrahan Meets PSPCL CMD in Patiala

Parallel to the Bhawanigarh protest, the electricity crisis sparked mobilization in neighboring Patiala as well. A delegation of BKU (Ugrahan), led by District President Jaswinder Singh Bras, met with the PSPCL Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), Basant Garg. They laid out two major demands:

1. Agricultural Supply: A minimum of 8 hours of uninterrupted electricity daily specifically for tubewell motors to ensure proper crop irrigation.

2. Domestic Supply: Relief from sudden power cuts in rural residential areas, demanding a 24-hour supply for households. The CMD assured the delegation that domestic supply would be streamlined and agricultural motors would receive at least 5 hours of power starting from 7:00 AM, alongside commitments to repair transformers before the upcoming paddy season.

CHANDIGARH – Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday announced a staggered schedule for paddy transplanting across Punjab for the 2026 season. In a strategic move to conserve depleting groundwater and manage the electricity load, the state has been divided into four distinct zones.

The government has also preponed the transplanting date to June 1 (previously June 10) to ensure the crop is harvested before the high-moisture period in October, aiding smoother procurement.

Key Highlights of the Schedule

1. Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR)

• Dates: May 15 to May 31.

• Coverage: Throughout the state.

• Incentive: The government continues to encourage DSR to save up to 20% of water.

2. Zone-Wise Transplantation (Puddling Method)

To prevent a sudden surge in power demand, transplantation will begin in phases:

Power and Water Supply Assurance

The Chief Minister assured the farming community of robust support during the sowing season:

• 8 Hours of Power: Farmers will receive an uninterrupted 8-hour daily power supply for tubewells starting from their respective zonal dates.

• Canal Water: Canal water release will begin as early as May 1 to assist in field preparation and DSR.

• Investment: Over ₹6,700 crore has been spent on upgrading canal infrastructure and pipelines up to March 2026 to reduce reliance on groundwater.

Why the Staggered Approach?

According to the government, this "4-Zone" formula serves three major purposes:

1. Water Conservation: Reduces the massive strain on the water table by spreading out the irrigation period.

2. Grid Stability: Prevents power grid failures by avoiding a state-wide spike in electricity demand on a single day.

3. Labor Management: Helps farmers manage labor shortages by extending the transplanting window across the state.

Important Note for Farmers

The government has reiterated its stance on Pusa-44, discouraging its cultivation due to its long duration and high water consumption. Farmers are instead urged to use short-duration varieties like PR-126 to ensure timely sowing of the next wheat crop.

Chandigarh | April 2026 — The Punjab and Haryana High Court has initiated a legal review of the recently notified Jagat Jot Sri Guru Granth Sahib Satkar (Amendment) Act, 2026. The court has clarified that before delving into the merits of the law, it will first determine the maintainability and legal validity of the petition filed against it.

The Background

The law was passed unanimously by the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on April 13, 2026, to coincide with Khalsa Sajna Diwas. It received the Governor’s assent on April 17 and was officially notified on April 20, 2026. The Act introduces life imprisonment for acts of sacrilege against the Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

 Legal Challenges Raised

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Simranjeet Singh, a resident of Jalandhar, has raised three primary constitutional objections. 

1. Lack of Presidential Assent: The petitioner argues that since the law introduces new criminal penalties (falling under the Concurrent List), it overlaps with the central Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Under Article 254(2) of the Constitution, such a state law requires the President of India's assent to be valid. Currently, it only has the Governor's approval.

2. Violation of Secularism: The plea contends that by providing exclusive, high-penalty protection to only one religious scripture, the state has violated the principle of "Equality before Law" (Article 14) and the secular fabric of the Constitution.

3. Proportionality of Punishment: The petition challenges Section 5(3), which mandates life imprisonment for conspiracy to commit sacrilege. It argues that equating a non-violent offense with the punishment for murder is "manifestly arbitrary."

   

The "Validity First" Approach

The High Court bench has indicated that the first phase of the hearing will focus on whether the petitioner has the locus standi (standing) to challenge the Act and whether the petition meets the technical requirements of a PIL. Only after the petition is deemed "valid" will the court move to examine the constitutional arguments against the state government.

Current Status

• The Law: Currently in force across Punjab.

• The Penalty: Minimum 7 years to life imprisonment depending on the nature of the offense.

• Next Step: The High Court is expected to seek a formal response from the Punjab Government regarding the procedural validity of the Act's notification.

ZIRAKPUR, PUNJAB – In a harrowing incident that has sparked outrage across the region, a rape victim set herself on fire in Zirakpur after the local police allegedly refused to register a First Information Report (FIR) regarding her assault. The woman is currently battling for her life in a critical condition.

The Incident

The victim, whose identity is protected under Indian law, reportedly reached the limits of her endurance after multiple attempts to seek justice were ignored. Witnesses state the woman set herself ablaze in a desperate act of protest against the "apathy" of the authorities.

She was rushed to a nearby medical facility and later shifted to PGIMER, Chandigarh, as her condition deteriorated.

Allegations of Systemic Negligence

According to local reports and the victim’s family:

• Refusal of FIR: The victim had approached the Zirakpur police station multiple times to report a sexual assault.

• Harassment: It is alleged that instead of providing protection, the authorities delayed the process, causing the victim extreme mental distress.

• Desperation: The failure to initiate a legal inquiry (FIR) is cited as the primary reason for her attempt at self-immolation.

• 

DC Orders High-Level Inquiry

Taking serious note of the incident, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mohali has ordered a high-level investigation into the matter.

• Accountability: The probe will investigate why the police failed to register the complaint and if there was a deliberate attempt to shield the accused.

• Action Against Personnel: The DC has hinted at strict disciplinary action against any police officers found guilty of negligence or dereliction of duty.

Public and Political Reaction

The incident has triggered protests by local women’s rights activists, who are demanding the immediate arrest of the accused rapist and the suspension of the police personnel involved in the delay.

"When the protectors of the law become the silent spectators of a crime, the victim is forced into a corner. This is not just a failure of the police, but a failure of the system." — Local Women’s Rights Activist

CHANDIGARH – After a grueling spell of intense heat, the people of Punjab are set to receive significant relief. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a major shift in weather patterns across the state, with widespread rain and gusty winds expected to break the ongoing heatwave.

IMD Issues Orange Alert

The Meteorological Centre has issued an Orange Alert for several parts of the state. Forecasters expect strong winds with speeds reaching 50–60 km/h to accompany the showers. This change is primarily driven by an active western disturbance and a cyclonic circulation currently hovering over the region.

Significant Drop in Mercury

Temperatures, which had been hovering well above normal, are expected to plummet by 4°C to 6°C following the precipitation. This "U-turn" comes as a massive respite for residents who have been battling temperatures exceeding 40°C in recent days.

Forecast for the Coming Days

• Immediate Relief: Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely in the next 24 to 48 hours.

• Unstable Conditions: While May 1st may see a brief dry spell, weather experts predict further instability starting May 2nd, with a Yellow Alert already in place for continued rain and winds through the first week of May.

• Impact on Agriculture: Farmers have been advised to keep a close watch on standing crops and adjust irrigation schedules to avoid waterlogging during the sudden downpours.

Zirakpur/Mohali | April 29, 2026 — A massive fire broke out early Wednesday morning at a Reliance warehouse located near village Kheri in the Zirakpur area of Mohali. The blaze, which spread rapidly, has reportedly reduced a vast stock of groceries, rations, and essential household items to ashes.

Flames Spread to Parked Vehicles

According to eyewitnesses, the fire was first noticed in the warehouse premises, but within minutes, high-intensity flames and thick black smoke began billowing from the building. The intensity of the heat was so high that it caught a vehicle parked in the vicinity, which was also significantly damaged.

The incident triggered panic among local residents and nearby industrial workers as the fire threatened to spread to adjacent units.

Emergency Response and Status

Upon receiving the alarm, the Fire Department dispatched several fire tenders from Zirakpur and Mohali to the spot. As of the latest update, fire brigade personnel are still battling the flames to prevent further spread. Local administrative officials have reached the site to supervise the rescue and relief operations.

Current Situation: The fire is being brought under control, though cooling operations are expected to continue for several hours given the combustible nature of the grocery stock.

Suspected Cause and Casualties

While an official investigation is yet to be concluded, preliminary reports from the site suggest that a short circuit may have triggered the blaze. Fortunately, no casualties or serious injuries have been reported so far, as workers managed to evacuate the premises in time.

Loss Assessment

A Reliance spokesperson or senior official is expected to provide an estimate of the financial loss once the site is declared safe. Initial assessments indicate that the loss of inventory—including pulses, grains, and packaged goods—could run into several lakhs of rupees.