Strike hits normal life in Kashmir

Srinagar, Jul 4: Hits normal life in the Kashmir valley due to general strike, called by separatist organisation today to protest Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit here.
Mr Modi is scheduled to inaugurate 240 MW Uri second power project besides address a high-level meeting at headquarters of 15 Corps in Srinagar.
Shops and business establishments remained closed and traffic was off the roads in the restriction-free areas in the summer capital, Srinagar. However, some private vehicles were playing on some uptown and civil line routes.
A number of three-wheelers had yet another field day, charging extra from passengers in the absence of normal transport service, including State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses.
A large number of private vehicles were stranded after police personnel closed main road at Natipora crossing. Reports said similar restrictions were also imposed on Airport road, where Prime Minister and others are expected to arrive from Katra.
Medical shops were open and some roadside vendors could also be seen in some areas.
Work in government offices, banks and other public undertakings was affected due to strike, called by both the factions of the Hurriyat Conference (HC) and other separatist organizations against the visit of Mr Modi.
The educational institutions, including those run by government, wore a deserted look as students and teaching staff stayed away. However, almost all private institutions had declared holiday today, fearing trouble.