Many Kannada groups called for a statewide strike on Thursday.
Protests continue in north Karnataka following Mahadayi Tribunal's decision not to divert its water in the area.
Karnataka had wanted an interim order for 7.56 tmc feet of water for drinking in its northern districts under the Kalasa Banduri project. But Goa had objected, feeling it would have an adverse impact on that state. The state has already stopped bus services to Karnataka for two days.
Many Kannada groups called for a statewide strike on Thursday. Its impact was felt more in north Karnataka, which will bear the brunt of the tribunal's decision. The twin cities of Hubli-Dharwad, which hoped for drinking water from the project, were badly hit, with its schools and colleges closed.
Karnataka Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara said the strike had been peaceful.
Appealing to the people of the five affected districts to maintain peace, he said, "The state government will do everything possible to convince the tribunal. The Centre has to consider."
There are instances, he said, where the Prime Minister has intervened before the tribunal gives a final verdict, "and it is high time PM Narendra Modi intervenes," he added.
Another bandh has been called on Saturday in Karnataka.
The Mahadayi river, which has its source in Karnataka, flows through Goa to the sea and Goa fears that diversion of the water to northern Karnataka would harm its interests.