With the indefinite strike by TNSTC staff entering fifth day, some 40 per cent buses were on the roads, easing the tension of commuters to certain extent, 27 persons were arrested for attempting to stage demonstration to extend support to the staff in the city.

Most of the buses were run with temporary crew, whereas private buses were found taking more trips to capitalise the situation.

Auto rickshaws fleeced the passengers by charging twice the normal rates. Many members of public lodged complaints with the police and the drivers’ unions, including CITU, which have released a new fare chart.

About 100 persons, including local leaders of trade unions gathered near South Taluk office to stage a demonstration in support of striking employees. As police told them that they will be arrested and remanded to 15 days custody, some of them withdrew from the demonstration, police said.

In the process 27 persons, majority of the local leaders of trade unions and political parties, were arrested.