Bengal Bandh Today: Airlines issue disruption alert, train services affected, police keep vigil on roads

Major airlines have issued alerts for transport and traffic disruptions, asking passengers to monitor road conditions and flight status after the Bharatiya Janata Party launched a 12-hour “Bengal Bandh” to protest against the state government. After the police used tear gas and violently attacked protesters during the 'Nabanna Abhijan' rally on Tuesday (August 27), the BJP announced a joint march from 6 am to 6 pm.

Vistara, IndiGo and SpiceJet have issued warnings, reminding passengers to be aware of possible local traffic problems, road congestion, diversions, traffic jams and slow-moving vehicles on their way to Kolkata Airport. They are also asked to plan their travel in advance and track flight status to stay updated with the latest developments during the festive season.

“Travel advisory: As BanglaBandh has announced that it will resume operations on August 28, 2024, local traffic in West Bengal may be disrupted. Travelers are advised to pay close attention to local traffic conditions and stay informed about flight status through the following methods: https://shorturl.at/6KfRe and allow enough time to travel to the airport,” SpiceJet said on its X social media account.

“6ETravelAdvisory: Passengers planning to travel from Kolkata may encounter road congestion and diversions on the way to the airport. Please plan your itinerary reasonably and allow extra travel time to ensure a smooth trip. Also pay close attention to your flight status https://bit.ly/3DNYJqj,” IndiGo raised an alert on X.

“TravelUpdate: Traffic jams and slow traffic are expected on the way to Kolkata Airport on August 28. Travelers are advised to allow more time for their journey to the airport. Thank you.

Sealdah line train services affected

Local train services affected on Bangaon-Sealdah railway line, says BJP labor Blocked the tracks. However, they are now recovering after TMC workers protested against the Bandh call.

The pinch is being felt across West Bengal, except in parts of Kolkata, even as a PIL has been filed against the company in the Calcutta High Court, the hearing of which will be held on Wednesday (August 28). There were reports that police detained a BJP worker who was watching a band performance in Alipurduar.

In Kolkata, doctors took out a protest march from Shyambazar to Dharmatala at 2 pm. The West Bengal government urged people not to respond to the BJP's general strike and issued a notification saying all government offices will remain open and all employees, except those facing emergencies or on leave, must report to work or show up. The reason for their unauthorized absence.

“The government will not allow any orchestra to perform on Wednesday. We urge people not to take part. All measures should be taken to ensure that normal life is not affected.