Thiruvananthapuram: The dawn-to-dusk hartal
called by the CPI(M)-led LDF and BJP separately in Kerala
against the petrol price hike hit normal life across the state
today.
The shut-down call crippled mobility of people as buses,
taxis and autorickshaws were off roads throughout the state.
For people in the state capital this was second hartal in
three days as LDF had called a similar protest on Saturday
against alleged police repression on pro-Left youth activists
who took to the streets against the fuel price hike.
Early reports said the hartal was total in urban areas where
shops and business establishments remained closed.
The pro-Left transport unions have also given a one-day
strike call for the day.
Many passengers who arrived in major towns by trains were
caught unawares by the hartal as they found it hard to get
vehicles for their short-distance travels.
Universities have postponed examinations slated for the
day.
Police said no untoward incidents, barring stoning of two
KSRTC buses in nearby Parassala, were reported.
PTI
First Published: Monday, September 19, 2011, 11:51