Koppal: The bandh call given by Koppal Bachavo Andolana Samiti and Koppal Parisara Hitarakshana Vedike on Saturday, demanding action against industrial pollution, protection of Tungabhadra rRver water and opposing the expansion of a steel plant, received a mixed response across the district.While traders supported the shutdown by keeping shops and commercial establishments closed, normal life gradually returned on the city’s major roads by around 10am. Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus services resumed operations from the Koppal District Central Bus Stand, with buses arriving from Koppal as well as neighbouring districts. Movement of private vehicles also returned to normal, limiting the overall impact of the bandh.As the district administration had directed organisers not to force businesses and establishments to shut down, vehicular traffic remained largely unaffected. The response, which fell short of organisers’ expectations, was seen as a setback to the agitation.Meanwhile, protesters attempted to disrupt bus operations after services resumed. Demonstrators staged a protest in front of the KSRTC depot, demanding suspension of bus services in support of the bandh. One protester drew attention by performing Urulu Seve, a ritual involving rolling on the ground as a mark of devotion and protest.Anticipating trouble, depot authorities shut the main gate and took precautionary measures to ensure smooth functioning of bus services. Tight police security was deployed outside the depot to prevent untoward incidents and facilitate the movement of buses.Despite sporadic attempts by protesters to enforce the bandh, public transport services continued to operate and traffic on key roads remained largely normal. However, the closure of commercial establishments reflected partial support for the agitation, which was organised around environmental concerns and demands for stricter action against industries accused of polluting Tungabhadra River water.
About The Author
