Bus services were crippled as public transport vehicles kept off the road in Villupuram district on Monday in view of the two-day-long nationwide strike called by central trade unions to protest against the Union Government’s alleged wrong policies that are affecting farmers, workers and people.
Besides buses operated by the State-owned TNSTC, a majority of auto rickshaws and taxis also remained off the roads, creating a semblance of total shutdown. However, private buses plied without hindrance across the district. Private bus services to neighbouring Puducherry were affected as buses operated only till the inter-State border at Madagadipet.
While business establishments functioned as usual, banks did not function as workers abstained from work impacting services. Lack of public transport affected the functioning of government offices, with low attendance being recorded. Police personnel were deployed in strength across the district.
Over 800 members owing allegiance to various trade unions were arrested for resorting to block the road at 15 places across the district.
Cuddalore and Kallakurichi
In Cuddalore and Kallakurichi districts, the strike-call paralysed working in Central government establishments, including banks and insurance companies. Normal life was partially affected as transport services were hit hard and public sector banks remained closed.
