Normal life comes to standstill in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 14 (UNI) Normal life came to a standstill in Kerala today following the 24-hour nation-wide general strike called by Leftist trade unions against the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government's economic and industrial policies.

Public transport was off the roads with only two-wheelers and some private vehicles on the roads since the strike began midnight last night.

The state-run Kerala State Road Transport Corporation and private buses, trucks and taxis were also off the roads.

Educational institutions, shops and other business establishments remained closed. Attendance in both Central and State Government offices was minimal. Train and fligh services were not hit.

Even though the Sabarimala pilgrims were exempted from the strike, in some places the strike had affected them as well.

The strike had no impact on the Technopark here with many companies working and employees reaching the campus with police escort.

A report from Kozhikode said normal life was hit in the Malabar Region following the general strike as the agitation forced the people to stay indoors in the absence of public transport.

Offices, government as well as private business establishments and educational institutions remained closed in the region.

The police said the strike was by and large peaceful and no untoward incidents were reported from anywhere.

UNI Team PN SK RS1330