With large-scale disruption in train services and closure of shops, markets, offices and educational institutions, the 12-hour hartal called by the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) as part of
the country-wide anti-price stir turned out to be near-total in Kerala.
The worst-hit by the shut-down were train passengers many of whom were stranded at different places for several hours as protestors blocked the trains on Tuesday.
Six short-distance trains were cancelled and major day trains linking the two ends of the State could not begin their journey in the morning as LDF activists picketed railway tracks at important stations including the state capital .
Buses and taxis also did not operate virtually crippling the mobility of people.Shops and educational institutions remained closed in the length and breadth of the state.
While the Left parties termed it as a big success and response from people to protest call spontaneous, the Congress leaders said the stir caused severe hardship to masses.