As of morning on day one of the two-day nation-wide strike called by central trade unions there has been a lukewarm response in Bengaluru and Mangaluru. However, life has been affected in Udupi with no buses from the Service Bus Stand to connect the region to either Mangaluru or the other important towns of the district.
While schools and colleges remained shut, it is business as usual for shops, theatres, hotels and city markets in Bengaluru.
BMTC is erring on the side of caution and operating a thin fleet in the city. In morning, two BMTC buses were pelted with stones by protestors in Malleswaram. All buses on this route have been cancelled. Speaking to The Hindu N.V Prasad, BMTC Managing Director, said: “We are sending out buses only as per requirement. Out of the 1196 morning schedules, 407 were operated. Depending on the situation we will decide on running more buses.” At the airport, security has been tightened. BMTC's Vayu Vajra service from KIA is also operations. However, most KSRTC buses are off the road.
Metro operations are normal and cab services, private buses and a few autorickshaws are also plying on the roads.
Bandh has little affect here as shops and business establishments continue to operate normally, even as people came out in less numbers fearing trouble in Mangaluru and other parts of Dakshina Kannada.
Schools and colleges remained closed following orders by the Deputy Commissioner Sasikanth Sentil S. Private and KSTRC city buses operated normally since morning. While service to Udupi and Kundapur was affected, buses operated on Dharmastala and other routes. Autorickshaws and taxis also remain in operation.
Business as usual in the Central market and the fishing harbour. Protest have been planned near the office of Deputy Commissioner in Mangaluru and in Bantwal, Belthangady and Sullia.
Life has been paralysed here with busses keeping off the road.
The private bus service connecting Udupi with Mangaluru is considered as the lifeline of the district. There are no buses from the Service Bus Stand here to either Mangaluru or the other important towns of the district such as Karkala, Hebri, Kundapur and Byndoor.
As a result of the strike call, the City Bus Stand and Service Bus Stands remain deserted. The District Administration already declared a holiday for schools and colleges in the district as a precautionary measure.
