Ranchi, Jan. 22 : A shutdown called by Maoists to protest against rising prices, severely disrupted normal life here on Thursday.

Factories, shops, offices, and all educational institution remained closed as news filtered in about Maoists torching vehicles and destroying mobile phone towers in different parts of the state.

Road transportation and train services were also hit badly.

"The trains are not running. There is a shutdown. The naxals (Maoists) have called for a shutdown. We don''t know whether the train will come or not," said a local, Shabuddin.

Shipment of coal and bauxite from mines was also hit badly as truck and lorry owners suspended their services.

Life in the neighbouring states of Bihar, Orissa and West Bengal was also affected by Maoist shutdown call.(ANI)