Date:17/07/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/07/17/stories/2008071754620600.htm

Tamil Nadu

Traders observe bandh in Karaikudi

Special Correspondent

KARAIKUDI: The traders of Karaikudi on Wednesday observed a bandh protesting against unscheduled power cuts.

Almost all shops and business establishments were closed for the day to register their protest. The vegetable and fruits markets didn’t function.

The busiest markets and junctions witnessed a deserted look.

Though the bus and other transport services were not affected, they were operated with a thin attendance.

The Chamber of Commerce president Muthu Pazhaniappan said the bandh call evoked total response from the traders, businessmen, industrialists and others, as they were severely affected by the acute power cuts.

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Board had introduced power cut without any prior announcement causing inconvenience to the people and traders.

The agitators were also demanded the Karaikudi Municipal administration to reduce the property tax. Creation of new district by making Karaikudi as its headquarters and change the timing of Sethu express were also among the demands of the traders.