Commuters too bear the brunt of protest

Saturday's violence in south Mumbai threw transport services out of gear for a major part of the afternoon. HT reports

Saturday's violence in south Mumbai threw transport services out of gear for a major part of the afternoon.

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Both bus and train services were suspended for about two hours after the protest turned violent, but were restored by 6pm. 49 BEST buses were damaged by the mob.

"We made continuous announcements at CST to maintain peace... We resumed services as soon as the situation improved," said senior divisional security official Alok Bohra.

On the Central line, motormen and guards at the Chhatrapati Sivaji Terminus (CST)refused to ply without proper security. People rushed inside the station as soon as violence broke out.

Police inside the station premises brought the situation under control. Western Railways (WR) administration said that they were better prepared as they could buy some time and make arrangements at Churchgate.

The JJ flyover was shut down from 4.15pm to 5pm and traffic was diverted through PD'Mello Road.

"Apart from JJ flyover, the Mahanagar Palika Marg was also temporarily closed. There was a heavy block on Dr DN Road. Several arterial roads had traffic snarls," said a traffic official.The BEST bus drivers abandoned their buses and ran for cover. The buses were removed before 5.30pm and traffic was restored.