Traders and farmers in Tamil Nadu have called for a state-wide bandh on Friday (September 16) over the Cauvery water sharing row. The bandh is being called to protest against the violence targeting Tamils in the neighbouring state of Karnataka.
Seeking a long-term solution to the Cauvery water issue, DMK party president M Karunanidhi has urged his party-workers to extend full support and participate in the bandh. "DMK has decided to support the bandh," the party president said in a statement.
In addition, other parties such as VCM, PMK, CPI (M), CPI and MDMK have shown their support in joining the bandh, which will be held on Friday, Press Trust of India reported.
What will be closed?
According to P R Pandian, who is the President of the Coordination Committee of Tamil Nadu All Farmers Association, about 22 lakh shops will be closed on September 16.
In addition, 16 lakh lorries will not be seen on roads in the state.
Farmers and members of the political parties are ensuring that the proposed rail-blockade is successful. According to the agency report, about 4,600 petrol pumps will remain shut from dawn to dusk, according to the Tamil Nadu Petroleum Dealers Association secretary.
The Federation of Tamil Nadu Traders' Association is also taking part in the bandh. However, protests over the Cauvery issue have continued across various parts in Tamil Nadu.
Impact of bandh on Karnataka
On the other hand, in Karnataka, the two-day bandh (on September 9 and September 13) resulted in heavy losses for the state. The Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) on Wednesday expressed concern over the repeated shutdown of the industry in the state arising due to the protests and bandhs, which were organised by various organisations.
"Bangalore (now Bengaluru) is recognised as one of the top cities in the world as it houses several renowned IT and manufacturing companies engaged in the development of industry and the economy. Since Bangalore is also now the start-up capital, it provides opportunities to scores of young entrepreneurs' to ideate and innovate, which ultimately will result in rolling out products that will improve the standard of living," BCIC said in a statement.
