Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Madurai has maintained that the state bandh in support of farmers' demands was a resounding success.

However, the real triumph vests on the State. The government should initiate appropriate measures to conserve and augment available water resources in the state for agricultural and drinking purposes, albeit with the cooperation of the Centre and prevent any such predicament in future, said the Senior President of the Chamber S Rethinavelu.

Urging the State Government to take immediate steps and accord top priority for interconnecting the 17 rivers flowing in the state and for implementing the Modern Tamil Nadu Water Ways Transportation Scheme, Rethinavelu reiterated the need for all political parties to extend support and cooperate in this regard.

Trade and industry representatives would be able to extend co-operation for implementing the scheme under Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) Mode, he added.

Meanwhile in Coimbatore, while shops and establishments downed shutters to express their support, select tea stalls and bakeries operated till around 10.30 am this morning, before shutting operations for the day.

With hoteliers deciding to support the bandh, the business at wayside eateries thrived around breakfast time.

The public transport system was not disrupted though. Both private and state-run buses continued to ply, albeit with thin capacity. Auto rickshaws however were off the road.

Cab service was available, but they were few and far.

Though the All India Bank Employees Association pledged support to the bandh, banking services were not impacted.

But the main bazaar area in the city wore a deserted look as cart-pullers, street vendors and loaders did not have much to do as shops were closed.

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