Thiruvananthapuram: People across Kerala was badly hit as private transport vehicles kept off the road in response to the 24-hour strike by owners associations and trade unions which began midnight, October 17 night.

The associations are protesting against the "steep hike" in vehicle insurance premium and demanding its roll back.

While private buses, taxis, autorickshaws and trucks kept off the road, Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated its services normally.

Police said no violence was reported from anywhere.

The strike is sponsored by the joint action council of owners' associations including bus and truck operators' federations and major transport unions have pledged their support to the protest.

Kerala High Court had directed the state government to ensure that the strike did not disrupt normal life.

PTI