10,000 farmers in Mumbai, will head to South Bombay today

MUMBAI: Over 10,000 tribals and farmers from across the state converged on Somaiya grounds in Sion on Wednesday and will march to

Azad Maidan

on Thursday to protest against the government's apathy on farm loans, the drought-like situation and the ambiguity on land rights in forest areas.


Their march from Thane to Sion led to a traffic snarl on the

Eastern Express Highway

, especially during the evening peak hours.

The march is being held to protest the "failure" of the state government to address concerns on farm loans, the prevailing drought-like situation and ambiguity on the issue of land rights in forest areas. They converged in Thane on Wednesday. Most protesters are carrying raw food which they plan to cook at the destinations where they will halt.

Police have not announced any specific plans for road diversions on Thursday. Senior officers said they would monitor the situation and would take a call after examining the ground situation. Sources said adequate security arrangements would be in place.