Bandh called by Warkari groups in Thane, Kalyan and Dombivli sees mixed response

THANE: The bandh called on Saturday by Warkari groups in Thane, Kalyan and Dombivli over the comments of Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders evoked a mixed response. The bandh was supported by local BJP units and the Sena’s Eknath Shinde faction.
The situation was normal in Thane except for stray cases of union leaders forcing auto drivers to stop plying and participate in the protest near the station. Three autos were damaged in Dombivli.
None of the 350-plus Thane transport buses operated since morning as union members prevented staff from entering depots. However, BEST, Navi Mumbai, MSRTC and Mira-Bhayandar transport services, along with private operators, saved the day. While officegoers were fewer considering it was Saturday, many opted for carpooling or worked from home. Several shops, malls and establishments in the core area of Thane and Dombivli were shut, but units along the fringes operated.