CHENNAI: Most shops in the State are expected to remain closed on Friday, the day several traders and farmers’ associations have called for a State-wide bandh over the Cauvery water issue. The bandh is to condemn the attacks on Tamils and their property in Karnataka.
However, medical shops will remain open. According to traders’ organisations, more than 20 lakh shops across the State are expected to remain shut from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday.
Meanwhile, various political parties, including DMK, PMK, CPI (M), CPI, DMDK, MDMK, and TMC have extended full support to the bandh call given by Cauvery Delta All Farmers Associations’ Coordination Committee, headed by PR Pandian, Vanigar Sangankalin Peramaippu, Tamil Nadu Vanigar Sangangalin Peravai, Tamil Nadu Lorry Owners’ Federation, Tamil Nadu Sand Lorry Owners’ Association and Hotel Owners Association.
R Sugumar, president,Tamil Nadu Lorry Owners’ Federation, said they have also expressed support to the bandh.
He said more than 11 lakh lorries in the State will remain off the road. In Chennai, Kanchipuram and Tiruvallur districts, about 15000 lorries will not be operated, he said. As lorries will not be operated, wholesale, fruit, vegetable, flower and food grain markets will be affected.
Speaking to Express, S Chandran, secretary, Koyambedu vegetable market, said on an average about 500 truck loads come to Koyambedu, but in view of the bandh, the quantity will not arrive.
Sporadic protests in Chennai
Meanwhile, political parties and various groups continued with their sporadic protests in the city for the third day on Wednesday over the Cauvery water issue.
Nearly 50 people, led by the coordinator of May 17 movement, Thirumurugan burnt effigies of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Sonia Gandhi in front of Sastri Bhavan.
They also tried to push down barriers and march towards the building accommodating Central government offices when they were arrested.
Around 40 VCK cadre, led by district secretary, Ambed Valavan, were reportedly arrested for protesting in front of the Karnataka Bank at Peravallur near Perambur.
A similar demonstration was held by Veera Tamilar Peravai in front of the bank at Virugambakkam. Police persuaded the demonstators to disperse.