Karnataka announces 12-hour bandh on August 13 amid Cauvery dispute and storm warnings
Karnataka will hold a 12-hour bandh on August 13 over the Cauvery water dispute, with transport disruptions expected, while hospitals stay open and schools remain open after a reversal.
On Thursday, August 13, Karnataka will observe a statewide 12-hour bandh from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. after pro-Kannada organisations demanded tougher measures on the Cauvery water dispute and acceleration of pending projects like Mekedatu, Mahadayi and Kalasa-Banduri. The shutdown is likely to affect public transport, taxis, autorickshaws, hotels and many commercial outlets, with Bengaluru expected to face the most severe disruptions on its roads and transit systems.
Authorities say hospitals and medical pharmacies will continue to function, and the Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools has cancelled its earlier call for school closures. Travelers near the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border, especially at Attibele, may encounter traffic restrictions and protests. The India Meteorological Department has warned of thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and heavy rain across coastal, south-interior and north-interior Karnataka, which could compound delays and diversions. Residents are advised to monitor transport updates before undertaking long journeys.
Why it matters
The bandh could halt daily commuting and commerce while highlighting ongoing tensions over water allocation in the region.
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