Delhi traders start 3-day strike: Video

 As traders downed shutters to start their three-day bandh in Delhi today, a thick security cover has been thrown around the Assembly building.

Police have set up a number of barricades in front of the Vidhan Sabha and its approach roads.

Though the Delhi government has not declared a holiday, some private school managements said their institutes would remain closed today.

 While all branches of Delhi Public School, Sriram School, Vasant Valley and Sanskriti have decided to remain closed, Modern School and St Mary's School will be open.

Praveen Khandelwal, secretary general of Confederation of All India Traders said they had exempted essential services and transport from the purview of the bandh. The traders body has asked its members not to block roads.

 Traders have also formed committees in various areas to to identify and contain "outside" elements who may create trouble during the protests.

The political community, in unison, has supported the 72-hour bandh. The BJP has extended its "full support" to the agitation. The Congress has also said its would support the bandh in a peaceful manner.

The Delhi Transport Corporation is operating its services according to its normal schedule. It has decided to deploy a number of cranes and recovery vans to lift any damaged vehicles.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, however, has suspended services between Delhi University and Kashmere Gate.