As large volumes of tea piled up in estate go-downs, special poojas are being conducted in kovils in the plantations as workers prayed for a speedy end to the ongoing trade union action, which has seen their personal incomes plunge.

The continuing go-slow by workers has taken a heavy toll in terms of losses suffered by regional plantation companies and the economic impact with exports disrupted to some extent. But, the workers themselves are feeling the pinch as their incomes have dropped drastically.

"Estate workers are desperate as seen by the large numbers taking part in the special poojas seeking divine intervention to resolve the crisis", officials in the trade said.

The sooner a settlement is reached, the better all around, they pointed out. "The trade union action has been dragging on for too long now".

The fallout of the ongoing go-slow has dealt a blow to traders as well. From the small-time jeweler up to shops selling pre-paid telephone cards are complaining of substantial losses as business remains slack.