UP enforces stricter cane transport norms for farmer protection and fog road safety

The Uttar Pradesh sugarcane administration has introduced tighter regulations on the transport and procurement of sugarcane to address two key concerns for the current season: safeguarding farmers’ interests and mitigating road accidents during dense winter fog. The revised guidelines come as authorities in the state’s major cane-producing districts prepare for heightened dangers on highways and rural routes amidst poor visibility.

Under the updated instructions, all deputy cane commissioners, district cane officers and sugar mill managements across 45 sugarcane‑growing districts have been directed to follow the new framework closely. A notable element of the rules is the prohibition on charging farmers any fee for loading or unloading sugarcane at mill procurement centres, a move intended to reduce unnecessary costs for growers.

To improve road safety, officials are emphasising the need for better visibility of vehicles transporting sugarcane. Tractor‑trolleys and trucks must now be fitted with yellow and red fluorescent paint strips. These visual aids are designed to make cane‑laden vehicles more noticeable in dense fog, when accidents are more common due to limited sight distances. Enforcement teams have also been instructed to work closely with local police and transport authorities to ensure consistent application of the new requirements.

At a sugar mill facility in Pilibhit, managers reported that thousands of vehicles have already been marked with fluorescent strips and other visibility enhancements. The practice will continue throughout the crushing season, with repainting as needed when markings fade. Additionally, red flags at the rear of sugarcane transport vehicles have been used as an added visibility measure.

Beyond road safety, the cane commissioner has ordered periodic surprise inspections at procurement centres to curb irregular practices such as short weighing and the diversion of cane. These steps aim to maintain transparency and fairness in the procurement process, addressing long‑standing concerns among some farmers about accurate measurement and timely payments.

While these tightened norms have been framed around safety and farmers’ protection, their practical impact will depend on consistent enforcement across districts and cooperation between departmental officials, mill authorities and enforcement agencies. The measures reflect an effort to balance agricultural logistics with public safety during a period when winter fog can significantly increase accident risks.