Bharat Bandh on February 12 may disrupt transport, banks, schools and markets across several states, while essential services like hospitals and emergency operations are expected to continue.
What Will Be Closed During Bharat Bandh on February 12?
The impact of the bandh may vary from state to state, but several services could face disruption:
- Public sector banks may operate with limited staff or remain closed in some areas.
- Government offices and public sector undertakings may see low attendance.
- Public transportation services, including buses and taxis, may operate at reduced frequencies or cease operations in certain regions.
- Factories and industrial units may suspend work for the day.
- Schools and colleges could remain closed in areas where staff and unions actively support the strike.
- Markets and local shops may shut in cities where participation is strong.
Commuters in major states such as Kerala, Odisha and parts of Karnataka may experience visible disruptions, especially if protestors block roads or stage demonstrations.
What Will Remain Open During the Nationwide Strike?
Despite the strike call, essential services have been kept outside the bandh to avoid public hardship. The following services are expected to remain open:
- Hospitals and emergency medical services
- Ambulance services
- Medical stores and pharmacies
- Fire and rescue services
- Milk supply
- Newspaper distribution
- Airports and flight operations
- ATMs
Authorities have assured the public that emergency services will function normally. However, reaching hospitals, airports or offices may become difficult in areas where transport services are affected.
February 12 Strike in Kerala: What’s Open, What’s Closed?
Kerala often witnesses strong participation in general strikes, and this bandh may significantly affect daily life in the state.
Likely to be closed or disrupted in Kerala:
- Schools and colleges
- Public transport, including KSRTC buses
- Auto-rickshaw and taxi services
- Government offices and public sector units
- Banks and insurance offices
- Shops, markets, and industrial units
Trade union representatives have described the strike as “unprecedented” in scale in Kerala. Political support from Left parties may further intensify the impact.
Services likely to remain open in Kerala:
- Hospitals and ambulance services
- Pharmacies
- Milk and newspaper distribution
- Vehicles carrying Sabarimala pilgrims
- Airport operations and ATMs
Residents have been advised to avoid non-essential travel.
Odisha Bandh on February 12: What to Expect?
Normal life across Odisha may also face disruption during the Bharat Bandh. Several trade unions have called for widespread participation in the state. Commuters in cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack may face traffic disruptions if protestors block roads or national highways. Train services could also face delays if demonstrators organise rail roko protests.
Educational institutions, markets and business establishments may remain closed depending on the scale of participation. However, emergency services such as ambulance operations will continue.
