Daijiworld Media Network - Noida

Noida, Apr 13: Violence broke out in Noida on Monday as a three-day labour union protest over wage demands escalated into clashes, arson and widespread disruption across industrial areas.

Large groups of factory workers took to the streets, blocking key roads and triggering massive traffic snarls at the Delhi-Noida border. Police were forced to use mild force to disperse protesters and bring the situation under control.

The unrest intensified in Phase 2, particularly in Sectors 1 and 84, where agitators allegedly set at least two vehicles on fire. Protesters raised slogans and blocked roads, with tensions quickly spreading across factory clusters.

Police teams were deployed at multiple locations to manage the situation and prevent further escalation, while officials engaged with workers to defuse tensions.

The protest turned violent despite assurances from district authorities and industrial representatives a day earlier regarding wage hike demands.

The agitation severely impacted traffic movement, with major routes including the DND Flyway witnessing heavy congestion during peak hours. Long queues of vehicles stretched for kilometres, leaving commuters stranded.

According to the Delhi Traffic Police, movement towards Noida was badly affected as protesters blocked the Noida Link Road near the Chilla border.

Meanwhile, a meeting was held at the Noida Authority to restore normalcy. Officials discussed key demands such as wage hikes, overtime pay, bonuses, weekly leave and workplace safety.

District Magistrate Medha Rupam issued helpline numbers and announced a dedicated control room to address workers’ grievances, assuring prompt action.

Security has been tightened across industrial areas under the Gautam Buddh Nagar Commissionerate, with senior officials closely monitoring the situation.