Malls operate under police cover

Malls in Pimprigaon Kalewadi and Pimple Saudagar operated under police protection. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone III) Shahaji Umap said strict action would be taken against elements trying to force malls or shops to close during the bandh. Police protection was provided at malls in Pimple Saudagar and two police vans were posted outside the buildings.

In Pune,most malls on Pune Ahmednagar Road,Bund Garden Road and other areas were open,though there was no visible police protection.

Manoj Patil,Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone IV),said they had taken proper care to ensure law and order in the area. “Two vehicles have been kept on standby. In case of any whiff of trouble,they would rush to the spot,” he said. Police said they would continue their vigil to keep malls open for convenience of the public.

Meanwhile,the first day of the strike did see a slight rise in footfall at malls as people shopped fearing shortage in the coming days.

Shanti Patil,of Akurdi,shopping for groceries at the local mall,said,“The last time when shops were closed for days,it had become very difficult for us. Although police and others have said malls would be open in the coming days too,I did not want to take any chances,” she said.

Citizens were critical of repeated strikes called by traders.

Tiara Shaikh,a resident of Patil Estate,said,“It seems traders are indulging in some kind of politics. The government should come down hard on them and resolve the issue once and for all.”