Rishikesh Tense: Police Pelted, Rail & Road Blocked Amidst Forest Land Demarcation

• Rishikesh faces tension as Forest Department begins demarcation of vacant forest land in Gumaniwala and Shivaji Nagar areas, following Supreme Court orders.
• Locals protested the demarcation on December 27, despite officials clarifying it only affects vacant land and is SC-mandated.
• Protests escalated on December 28, with demonstrators blocking Mansa Devi railway crossing, causing significant rail traffic disruption and delays.
• The city's traffic system collapsed, leading to an 8 km long jam for 3-4 hours, severely impacting commuters and tourists.
• Confrontation between protesters and police led to stone-pelting in Gumaniwala, prompting deployment of additional forces.

Why It Matters: Rishikesh sees major unrest, traffic chaos, and police confrontation over forest land demarcation.