20102025-ATR-01.qxd 10/19/2025 11:03 PM Page 1 c m y b Amritsar tribune FORECAST MAINLY CLEAR SKY MAX 31°C | MIN 19°C YESTERDAY MAX 32°C | MIN 18°C SHAHZADA NAND COLLEGE BAGS GNDU INTER-COLLEGE TROPHY DR SOHAL’S NEPHEW ENTERS BY-ELECTION RACE GREEN CRACKERS EMIT LESS, BUT AREN'T POLLUTION-FREE Shahzada Nand College has bagged the GNDU inter-college (Men) 'B' Division Championship Trophy. P2 Political circles were surprised when, out of the eight candidates who filed their papers, one was Komalpreet Singh. P2 Readers bat for quieter celebration option and reducing vehicular emissions and stubble burning. P2 » » SUNSET MONDAY 5.52 PM SUNRISE TUESDAY 6.37 AM » MONDAY | 20 OCTOBER 2025 | AMRITSAR Over 6,500 police personnel to ensure safe, peaceful Diwali ADCP warns of strict action against encroachments and violators during fest Charanjit Singh Teja Tribune News Service A fire tender stationed outside the Town Hall Fire Brigade in Amritsar on Monday. Fire Dept officials put on alert Tribune News Service Amritsar, October 19 In view of the upcoming Diwali festival, the Fire Brigade Department of the Municipal Corporation Amritsar has been placed on high alert, following directions issued by Municipal Commissioner Bikramjit Singh Shergill. The department aims to ensure a prompt response in the event of any fire-related emergencies during the festive season, when the risk of incidents significantly increases due to the widespread use of lights, diyas, and firecrackers. Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Lovepreet Singh and Assis- Free wheat seeds given to flood-affected farmers Tribune News Service Amritsar, October 19 The Jamhoori Kisan Sabha, Punjab, a member organisation of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha, is working to provide quality wheat seeds to farmers affected by recent floods. Wheat sowing is expected to begin in the last week of October, but many flood-affected farmers have lost the seeds they had stored at home. Dr Satnam Singh Ajnala of the farmer union said that recently, they collected seed samples from Pratap Agriculture Seed Farm, Jaito Sarja, to test their germination capacity and quality standards. After successful testing, a team from the Kisan Sabha, led by Dr Ajnala, visited the seed farm today to procure more seeds. The team included Jang Bahadur Singh Mattia, Harnek Singh Nepal, Jagga Singh Dalla and well-known singer Gurpal Gill Saidpur. They inspected the seed production and storage processes at the farm. After thorough inspection, the team finalised the procurement of a large consignment of PBW-826 wheat seeds, known for their high yield and resilience. The organisation announced that these seeds will be distributed among marginal and flood-affected farmers in the hardest-hit areas of Punjab. Dr Ajnala said this initiative aims to help farmers restart cultivation after suffering heavy crop losses due to the floods. He appreciated the cooperation of Pratap Agriculture Seed Farm for providing high-quality seeds at reasonable rates. Kisan Sabha leaders said such efforts will continue until every flood-affected farmer receives support to resume farming and restore livelihood security. tant Divisional Fire Officer (ADFO) Dilbagh Singh have instructed all station officers to remain present at their respective sub-fire stations at all times. The officials confirmed that emergency response teams are fully equipped and ready to handle any situation across the city. CFO Lovepreet Singh also shared their direct contact numbers for public assistance: 9814255010 and 98552-02066. Residents have been advised to immediately contact the nearest fire station in case of any emergency. According to officials, the municipal corporation currently operates 20 fire tenders and has deployed 110 trained fire personnel to ensure citywide safety. In case of a large-scale emergency, the department is prepared to seek additional support from Amritsar Sewa Samiti, Khanna Paper Mills, the Indian Air Force, Amritsar airport authorities and neighboring districts. The Fire Department has urged citizens to exercise caution during celebrations, avoid using open flames near flammable materials, and ensure electrical safety to prevent mishaps. Continuous patrolling and fire safety checks have also been intensified across markets and congested areas in Amritsar to ensure a safe and joyful Diwali for all. Amritsar, October 19 On the eve of Diwali, the holy city of Amritsar has been transformed into a high-security zone to ensure peace and public safety during the festival. Police personnel have been deployed at every sensitive location, leaving no corner unchecked. Continuous patrolling and checking drives are being conducted across the city and its outskirts. Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar and SSP (Rural) Maninder Singh stated that elaborate security arrangements have been put in place, particularly around highfootfall areas such as the Golden Temple, Durgiana Temple, the railway station, the bus stand, and Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport. Two companies of the Border Security Force (BSF) and over 6,500 police personnel — including 4,500 from the city police and 2,000 from rural Police personnel check a vehicle on eve of Diwali in Amritsar on Sunday. PHOTO: VISHAL KUMAR Amritsar — have been assigned duty during the festive period. Additional teams from the traffic police and the Municipal Corporation have also been deployed to ensure smooth vehicular movement and prevent congestion in busy marketplaces. “Traffic jams will not be allowed at any cost,” officials asserted. Authorities have established 90 checkpoints throughout the city, including major routes like the AmritsarPathankot, Amritsar-Jalandhar, and Amritsar-Tarn Taran roads. All vehicles entering the city from other districts and states are being thoroughly checked, with drivers’ names, mobile numbers, and registration details being recorded. Police Commissioner Bhullar and SSP Maninder Singh have appealed to citizens to avoid overcrowded places and to report any suspicious individuals or unattended objects to the police control room immediately. “Public cooperation is essential to ensure a peaceful and safe Diwali,” they added. ADCP Amandeep Kaur stated that strict action will be taken against encroachers and violators, and cases will be registered if needed. She added that both uniformed and plainclothes police officers have been stationed at strategic locations to monitor public activity. “People are requested not to touch any unattended items and to alert the police immediately,” she emphasized. Meanwhile, police patrolling teams were seen conducting vehicle checks at busy intersections. CCTV surveillance has been intensified across all sensitive areas, ensuring that the city remains under constant observation. Civil Surgeon urges parents to City markets dazzle with festive spirit supervise kids during cracker use Tribune News Service Tribune News Service Amritsar, October 19 As the city prepares to sparkle with festive lights and joy, the Health Department has issued an advisory urging residents to celebrate Diwali responsibly and safely. To ensure prompt medical assistance in case of emergencies, eye, skin, and other specialists will remain on duty at the Jallianwala Bagh Martyrs’ Civil Hospital throughout Diwali night. Civil Surgeon Dr Swaranjit Dhawan reminded citizens that many firecracker-related accidents involve children and can be easily prevented with proper supervision. “Parents must remain vigilant and ensure that children burst crackers only under their supervision. Those below 10 years of age should not handle high-intensity fire- ADVISORY LAYS STRESS ON PRECAUTIONS ■ The advisory outlines several precautionary measures: avoiding loose or synthetic clothing, keeping a first aid kit nearby, and having a bucket of water or sand ready while lighting crackers. “In case of a fire-related accident, make the affected person roll on the ground to extinguish flames and pour cold water over burns until the burning sensation subsides,” Dr Dhawan advised. works,” he advised. Emphasising awareness and prevention, Dr Dhawan urged parents to counsel their children about celebrating Diwali in a safe and environmentally friendly manner. He added that while the festival symbolizes light and joy, safety should remain a top priority. The advisory outlines several precautionary measures: avoiding loose or synthetic clothing, keeping a first aid kit nearby, and having a bucket of water or sand ready while lighting crackers. “In case of a firerelated accident, make the affected person roll on the ground to extinguish flames and pour cold water over burns until the burning sensation subsides,” Dr Dhawan advised. Experts also recommended using earplugs to protect against loud noises and maintaining a safe distance while lighting or watching fireworks. Residents are encouraged to use incense sticks instead of matchsticks or lighters, as they minimize the risk of accidental burns. The advisory also cautions against lighting firecrackers inside glass or metal containers. Amritsar, October 19 Ahead of Diwali, the city has transformed into a vibrant canvas of lights, colour, and cheer. From traditional sweets to glittering decorations, markets are brimming with excitement as residents step out in large numbers to make their festive purchases. The bustling lanes of Hall Bazaar, Lawrence Road, and Katra Jaimal Singh are glowing with decorative lights and colourful displays. Shops are overflowing with diyas, candles, lanterns, ethnic wear, and gift hampers. Traders say this year’s festive rush is much stronger compared to previous seasons, with people eager to celebrate Diwali with renewed enthusiasm. “Customers started shopping early this year. We’re seeing a steady flow of buyers for sweets, lights, and home décor items,” said Ramesh Kumar, a ETT TET teachers protest govt apathy Tarn Taran, October 19 Teachers, under the banner of the ETT TET Teachers’ Association (6505), Jai Singh Wala, organised a protest rally at Gandhi Municipal Park here on Sunday. The rally was held to protest the alleged indifferent attitude of the Punjab Government. The protesters marched to the residence of Harmeet Singh Sandhu, AAP candidate for the upcoming Tarn Taran by-election, scheduled for November 11. State president Kamal Thakur, general secretary Sohan Singh Barnala and finance secretary Gurmukh Singh Patiala were among the leaders who addressed the gathering. They condemned the termination of five-year contractual services of 180 teachers between 2016 and 2021, describing it as unjust and arbitrary. The leaders alleged that the state government, especially A woman buys decorative lights at a market in Amritsar on Sunday. PHOTO: VISHAL KUMAR shopkeeper at Hall Bazaar. Gift items, traditional clothes, and dry fruit boxes are among the top-selling products. Families can be seen hopping from one shop to another, picking out gifts for their loved ones. Youngsters are particularly drawn to trendy clothing, accessories, and handmade decor items. “After months of saving, we Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, had repeatedly assured resolution of their issues but failed to take action. They criticised the administration for delaying the resolution of broader public issues as well — including the promised monthly stipend of Rs 1,000 for women, minimum support price (MSP) guarantees for farmers, and unemployment allowances for jobless youth. Highlighting their demands, the teachers led a peaceful march through the city, culminating at Harmeet Singh Sandhu’s residence. There, they accused Finance Minister Cheema of evading responsibility and ignoring their long-pending demands. c m y b The protesting teachers appealed to Tarn Taran residents to hold the AAP government accountable in the upcoming by-election. They also urged all sections of society to unite and raise their voices against what they described as the state government’s continued apathy toward public grievances. — OC traditional bulbs to decorate balconies and courtyards. Meanwhile, the local administration has urged residents to celebrate safely, avoid overcrowding, and follow fire safety guidelines while lighting diyas and candles. With just a few hours left until the festival of lights, the city’s festive fervour is at its peak. Cops attacked during raid on illicit liquor distillery in Bhandal Our Correspondent Teachers along with others during a protest against the state government in Tarn Taran. GURBAXPURI look forward to this time of the year to buy gifts and sweets for everyone,” said Harpreet Kaur, a shopper from Ranjit Avenue. As part of Diwali preparations, many households are also busy sprucing up their homes with fresh paint, flowers, and lights. Electrical shops are witnessing brisk business as people prefer eco-friendly LED lights over Tarn Taran, October 19 The authority of the police was openly challenged on Friday when a police team was attacked during a raid on an illicit liquor distillery in Bhandal village. According to sources, the police party, led by Sub-Inspector Gurmukh Singh, SHO Valtoha, conducted a raid on a farmhouse where Swaranjit Singh, along with his sons Deepak Kumar, Sandeep Kumar, and associate Ranjodh Singh Jodha, was allegedly operating an illegal liquor still. During the raid, the accused questioned the jurisdiction of the raiding party, claiming that their residence fell under the jurisdiction of Rajoke police post, which comes under Khalra police A VERBAL ALTERCATION ESCALATES INTO ATTACK ■ According to sources, the police party, led by Sub-Inspector Gurmukh Singh, SHO Valtoha, conducted a raid on a farmhouse where Swaranjit Singh, along with his sons Deepak Kumar, Sandeep Kumar, and associate Ranjodh Singh Jodha, was allegedly operating an illegal liquor still. ■ During the raid, the accused questioned the jurisdiction of the raiding party, claiming that their residence fell under the jurisdiction of Rajoke police post, which comes under Khalra police station, not Valtoha. A verbal altercation ensued, which escalated into a physical attack on the police team. station, not Valtoha. A verbal altercation ensued, which escalated into a physical attack on the police team. Following the attack, SHO Gurmukh Singh called for reinforcement from ASI Shangara Singh, in-charge of Rajoke police post, who arrived at the scene promptly. However, before the situation could be brought under control, Swaranjit Singh, his sons Deepak and Sandeep, and Ranjodh Singh managed to flee the spot. On Saturday, a case was registered against the accused at Rajoke police post under the Khalra police station. Charges include violations under Sections 61, 1, and 14 of the Excise Act, along with Sections 132, 221, 238 and 3(5) of the BNS. The police are conducting further investigations and efforts are underway to apprehend the absconding accused.