Vadodara, Aug 08: 'Gujarat bandh' called by the Congress to protest against the hikes in power tariff for farm sector, education fee and stamp duty, began today amid tension after incidents of arson in the city last night. Five state transport buses were set ablaze in the city last night triggering tension in most parts of this city. However, nobody was injured in the incidents, police said.

The buses were targetted with a view to create panic and facilitate a total bandh in the city today, they said adding twoyouth were arrested in connection with the burning of a city bus at Chowkhandi under Wadi Police Station.

City bus services were immediately withdrawn in the wake of the incidents and would remain suspended for the day, official sources said. Meanwhile, two youth Congress leaders -- Rajnikant Patel and Nazar Bharwad were arrested by Fatehgunj Police while forcing closure of shops at Avilasha Square today.

Police control room said besides the existing police force, seven companies of state reserve force and rapid action force had been deployed in sensitive areas.

Though major markets were closed and buses were off the roads, banks, government offices and most of the educational institutions were open.

Gujarat Electricity Board (GEB) sources said all vital installations of the board, including its sub-stations, had been provided armed security in view of the bandh.

Bureau Report