Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 18: Normal life across Kerala was hit today as private transport vehicles kept off the roads in response to a 24-hour strike to protest the 'steep hike' in automobile insurance premium.

The protest by vehicle owners associations and trade unions began midnight last night. Police said no violence was reported from anywhere.

While private buses, taxis, autorickshaws and trucks kept off the roads, Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operated its services normally.

The strike, sponsored by the joint action council of owners' associations including bus and truck operators federations, is demanding a roll-back in the 'steep hike' in automobile insurance premium. Major transport unions have pledged their support to the protest. Kerala High Court had directed the state government to ensure that the strike did not disrupt normal life.

Bureau Report