Bihar, Jharkhand comes to a virtual standstill

Patna, Jul 2: Maoists call for a Bihar-Jharkhand bandh on Wednesday, July 2 has brought the two states to a virtual standstill.

The Bihar government has made elaborate security arrangements in view of the Bihar-Jharkhand bandh called by Maoist ultras on Wednesday, July 2. Sources at the state headquarters here said all police stations had been alerted and directed to keep extra vigil in their jurisdiction. Security had been beefed up around the public places, the sources informed. The security personnel were monitoring the bordering areas of the state with Jharkhand as well as neighbouring country Nepal.

Meanwhile, a report from West Champaran, quoting official sources, said the Maoists blasted 15 to 20 metres-long railway track in between Mahaul-Mahesi railway stations under Narkatyaganj-Muzaffarpur sections of Eastern railways at around midnight last night.

No casuality was, however, reported in the incident. Through Train services on the section were paralysed.

The Railways have tightened security and directed the Government Rail Police (GRP) as well as Railway Protection Force(RPF) to remain cautious during the bandh.

The Railways have also cancelled and changed routes of several trains following the bandh call.

Pilot engines were being run ahead of mail and express trains as safety measures during the night.

Patrolling on the railway tracks had also been intensified, East Central Railway (ECR) sources informed.

The Maoists called the bandh in protest against the alleged police excesses and arrest of their outfit's leaders.

UNI