THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala today wore a hartal-like look with traders across the state downing shutters to press their demands relating acquisition of land for developing the national high way.

Business establishments across Kerala remained closed as traders from all over the state converged here to protest against acquisition of land for construction of National Highways.

Responding to the protest call by the traders' council Kerala Vyapari Vyvasayi Samiti, hundreds of traders drawn from all parts of the state converged here to take part in a march to highlight their demands.

Fearing demolition of rows of shops for road widening in many parts of the state, the traders' body wanted the width of the highway to be limited to 30 feet.They also wanted the government to ensure sufficient compensation for demolished shops and rehabilitation of the displaced shop owners and workers.

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