Major Bharat Bandh Disrupts India: Severe Transport Hit, Key Services Affected on February 13, 2026
A nationwide Bharat Bandh called by several trade unions and farmer groups disrupted normal life in many parts of India on Friday. The shutdown affected public transport, banking services, markets, and government offices in multiple states.
While essential services continued in most regions, commuters faced delays and uncertainty during peak hours. The bandh became one of the top search trends across India today as people looked for live updates on school closures, transport status, and market operations.
This report explains where the impact was strong, where life remained normal, and how authorities responded.
Why the Bharat Bandh Was Called
Organisers said the bandh was called to protest against rising prices, labour policy issues, and demands linked to farmer welfare. Several central trade unions supported the strike call.
Protests were reported in parts of India, including rallies, road blockades, and peaceful demonstrations.
Police in major cities increased security and deployed extra personnel at railway stations, bus terminals, and government buildings to prevent any untoward incidents.
Transport Services: Where Movement Was Affected
Rail Services Face Delays in Select Regions
Railway authorities confirmed that train services were largely operational. However, there were delays in some routes due to protests near tracks in parts of eastern and northern India.
In cities like Kolkata, protestors gathered near suburban railway lines, leading to temporary disruption. Commuters reported delays during morning peak hours.
The Ministry of Railways stated that long-distance trains continued to run, but passengers were advised to check live status updates before travel.
Bus and Road Transport Impact Varies by State
Public buses operated normally in many states. However, road transport was affected in certain districts where protestors blocked highways.
In Bengaluru, bus services ran with police protection. Some private transport operators reduced services as a precaution.
In parts of Punjab and Haryana, highway blockades slowed down traffic movement for several hours in the morning.
App-based taxi services continued to function in metro cities, though surge pricing was reported in a few areas due to increased demand.
Metro Services Continue in Major Cities
Metro rail services remained operational in cities including:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Hyderabad
Authorities said metro networks were placed on alert but reported no major disruption as of 2:00 PM IST.
Banking and Financial Services
Several public sector bank unions participated in the strike. As a result:
- Some bank branches remained closed
- Cheque clearing services were delayed in select cities
- ATMs continued to function normally
Private banks largely remained open, though footfall was lower than usual.
Stock markets operated as scheduled. The BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty opened normally at 9:15 AM IST, with no direct trading suspension due to the bandh.
Schools, Colleges, and Offices
Education Institutions: Mixed Response
Schools and colleges in most states remained open. However, attendance was low in districts where transport was disrupted.
Some private schools in sensitive areas declared a holiday as a precaution. State education departments did not issue a nationwide closure order.
Parents were advised to check with individual institutions before sending children to school.
Government Offices and PSUs
Government offices functioned with reduced attendance in certain states. In some public sector units, employees participated in demonstrations outside office premises.
Officials stated that essential departments such as:
- Healthcare
- Electricity supply
- Water services
- Emergency response
remained fully operational.
Hospitals across major cities confirmed that emergency services were not affected.
Markets and Business Activity
Wholesale markets in a few cities saw partial shutdowns during the first half of the day. Retail markets in metro cities were mostly open.
In Patna, traders in some local markets downed shutters to show support. However, shopping malls and large retail chains in urban centres operated normally.
E-commerce platforms and food delivery services reported no major impact on operations.
Industry bodies said that while the bandh created local disruptions, there was no nationwide halt in economic activity.
State-Wise Situation: Where Impact Was Stronger
West Bengal
Protests were visible in parts of the state. Road blockades were reported in some districts. Kolkata witnessed rallies led by union members.
Kerala
In Kerala, trade union participation was noticeable. Shops and transport services saw limited operations in some areas during the morning hours.
Delhi-NCR
In the National Capital Region, daily life remained mostly normal. Security presence was increased at sensitive locations.
Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, Mumbai local trains operated as usual. Markets and offices remained open.
Public Response: Support and Inconvenience
The public response was mixed.
Some citizens supported the protest call, saying issues like rising prices and employment concerns needed attention.
Others expressed frustration over travel delays and disruptions during working hours.
On social media platforms, hashtags related to #BharatBandh trended throughout the morning. Users shared live updates, photos of protests, and traffic advisories.
Search interest peaked between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM IST, according to digital trend trackers.
Security and Law Enforcement Measures
Police forces were deployed in major cities to prevent violence.
Authorities said protests were largely peaceful. Minor detentions were reported in areas where road blockades caused heavy congestion.
Officials urged citizens to rely on verified sources for updates and avoid spreading rumours.
Economic Impact: Limited but Notable
Experts believe the economic impact of a one-day shutdown is usually limited but can affect small businesses and daily wage workers.
Transport delays can slow supply chains temporarily. However, large industries and digital services continue operations in most cases.
The Reserve Bank of India did not announce any special advisory related to the bandh.
What Happens Next
Organisers said they will review the response to the bandh and decide on future action based on government dialogue.
The central government has not yet issued an official statement responding directly to today’s protest demands.
For now, most cities are expected to return to normal operations by evening.
Key Updates at a Glance
- Date: February 13, 2026
- Nationwide Bharat Bandh observed in several states
- Transport disruptions reported in parts of eastern and northern India
- Metro services operational in major cities
- Banks partially affected in select areas
- Stock markets functioned normally
- Schools mostly open, attendance low in some regions
- Protests largely peaceful
Why This Story Matters
A nationwide Bharat Bandh affects millions of citizens. From daily commuters to small traders, the impact is immediate.
For many, the key concerns today were simple:
- Will trains run?
- Are banks open?
- Should children go to school?
As India balances economic growth with social demands, such nationwide shutdowns remain a powerful form of protest.
Today’s events show that while essential services stayed active, regional disruptions still affected daily life.
Citizens are advised to stay updated through official state advisories as normalcy gradually returns across the country.
Also Read: Important CTET and Board Exam News 2026: What Students Should Know Amid Nationwide Strike
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Last Updated on: Friday, February 13, 2026 4:55 pm by Republic Post Team | Published by: Republic Post Team on Friday, February 13, 2026 4:55 pm | News Categories: News
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