Saturday's hartal that was called at very short notice played spoilsport with the travel schedule of visitors to the district and the weekend plans of residents.
Many people went without essential commodities on the day, as shops were closed. Even State-run buses and boats did not conduct service on the day, resulting in people being stranded at railway stations, bus stands and other places. Bus services resumed after 6 p.m. although it would take some time for the schedules to be restored to normality. Private buses kept off the road. Though ferries conducted service only after 6 p.m., there were not many passengers.
The roads were dominated by two-wheelers and cycles. Many air, train and bus passengers who arrived here carrying heavy baggage had to either walk up to hotels and seek accommodation, or carry the luggage to their destination on two-wheelers brought by acquaintances. A few cars plied, some with ‘Airport' stickers.
Many visitors to the city and those who depend on hotels for food had to walk up to the few portable eateries on major roads. Even bottled water was in short supply in many areas. Women and students who arrived at the city from nearby States were among those who were forced to have food from the footpath. Many sought refuge in the homes of friends and relatives. Patients who had fixed appointments with doctors and others would have to bide their time till Monday.
Merchants selling perishables were amongst the worst hit by the hartal, since there were few buyers for fish, meat, vegetables and fruits. Garbage clearance too was affected. The operation of seafood-processing factories and lorries ferrying them to the port and other locations too was hit. The transportation of containers and other goods from ships also was affected. A few shops were open in some bylanes.
Attendance was very thin in Government offices. There were no major law and order problems. A rally taken out by hartal supporters in the city was peaceful.
Revenue Minister K. P. Rajendran who arrived at the Nedumbassery airport in the morning, preferred to be confined to the premises till the expiry of the hartal time.
