Quicktakes

Traders’ strike in Gujarat
VADODARA: Traders of Central Gujarat will observe a one-day token strike on New Year’s Day to protest against the Union Government’s proposed notification of floor sales tax system in the country. Central Gujarat Chamber of Commerce president Bhupendra Patel said, during the last meeting of State Finance Minister with Union Finance Minister Yashwant Sinha it was decided to impose floor base sales tax system from Jan 1, 2000.

Rly station blasted
HYDERABAD: Naxalites belonging to the People’s War Group blasted the Intikanya railway station building in Warangal district of Andhra Pradesh Tuesday night. The train services on the route were affected for more than two hours as the signaling equipment at the station was damaged, according to police here Wednesday.

Explosives seized
CHENNAI: In a major haul, police seized 600 gelatine sticks, 500 electric detonators, 1,400 detonators and 200 wires and arrested four people in this connection at inTiruchirapalli district Wednesday. According to information received at the police headquarters here, the arrested had purchased the explosive substances with a false licence. They were held during a vehicle check.