Hartal: Widespread attack, KSRTC driver drives bus wearing helmet to escape stone pelting

KOCHI: A KSRTC driver was seen driving the bus wearing a helmet on the hartal day. The driver of Aluva depot wore a helmet and drove to avoid stone pelting by the Popular Front workers. There are reports that a driver of Chengannur depot also drove the bus in a similar manner.

Stones were pelted at KSRTC buses in many places of the state. Drivers and passengers were injured in three places. Meantime, Transport Minister Antony Raju responded that the services will not be suspended. The minister informed that strict action will be taken against the culprits and compensation will be charged.

Widespread attacks are being reported in the state. A petrol bomb was hurled at a newspaper vehicle in Kannur. In Kollam, policemen were knocked down by the protestors on bikes. A clash broke out between the police and the protestors at Erattupetta in Kottayam. About 100 people in the area were detained. A Traveler was vandalised in Kannur.