India: Passenger transport associations call for protest in Mumbai Aug. 15

Event

Multiple transport associations have called for a protest at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai Aug. 15 to demand the city government resume rail services for people who are not classified as essential. Organizers may also hold gatherings outside other stations. Despite the Maharashtra Chief Minister, Uddhav Thackeray, announcing that local trains in Mumbai would resume for fully vaccinated individuals from Aug. 15, protest organizers have not called off the action; however, protesters may suspend the gathering at short notice. Several dozen to a couple hundred people may participate in larger gatherings.

Security personnel will likely tighten security at CSMT and other rail stations. If protesters do gather, security forces may try to disperse especially disruptive gatherings. Clashes between protesters and police are possible. Participants may block or march along nearby roadways, causing localized transport disruptions.

Advice

Avoid protests due to possible clashes. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately. Follow all security personnel instructions. Allow additional travel time near gatherings as a precaution. Do not attempt to cross roadblocks, as protesters may react violently.