India-Pakistan tension triggers mass exodus of migrant workers from Punjab to home states

Chandigarh: A large number of migrant laborers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have started leaving Punjab following drone attacks in the border districts, despite the announcement of a ceasefire under ‘Operation Sindoor’.

The fear sparked by the deteriorating security situation has led to a visible surge in crowds at railway stations in Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Pathankot.

The panic is not limited to laborers alone. Street vendors and students from other states are also heading back to their hometowns.

The mass departure comes at a critical time as Punjab’s paddy season is set to begin on June 1, raising concerns over an imminent labor shortage. Experts warn this could severely impact both agriculture and industry in the state.

Several migrants said they preferred staying with their families during such uncertain times. They plan to return only when the situation stabilizes.

Speaking to Punjab E News at Jalandhar railway station, Suresh Kumar, a resident of Bihar, said, “The atmosphere here is messy. We are going to 12 people to our native villages. We make laddoos in Amritsar. Now we will come back only when things get better.”

Gufran from Sitapur echoed similar sentiments. “The atmosphere in Punjab is deteriorating. Our families say there’s no point staying here. That’s why we’re leaving,” he said.

Officials fear the continued exodus may worsen the existing manpower shortage in the coming weeks if the situation does not improve.