Naxalites call 3-day economic blockade from tomorrow

Ranchi, May 25 (UNI) Security has been beefed up in view of the three-day economic blockade called by the proscribed CPI (Maoist) Naxalites in Jharkhand beginning from tomorrow to ensure uninterrupted transportation of minerals produced in the state.

Senior government officials told UNI here today that with the previous experience of naxalite attacks during such economic blockades in the past, the authorities emphasised the need of better co-ordination between para-military and Railways forces in the mineral rich districts.

Extra forces have been deployed at important mines, officials said.

Despite the government's effort to counter the blockade, transporters in Lohardaga, famous for bauxites, apprehended the presence of landmines following the violence triggered by the Naxalites.

Exporters from the main coal belts like Dhanbad, Hazaribag, Chatra, Palamu, Latehar and Giridih said the blockade might disrupt normal functioning.

Besides, transportation and mining activities might be largely affected in Bhabnapur (dolomite and lime stone) and Sarguja district in neighbouring Chattisgarh.

Railway sources said security has been tightened but booking and carriage during the stir would be affected.

Eighteen districts out of total 22 in Jharkhand are dominated by Naxalites.

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