Mumbai, Aug 17 (IANS) Continuing with the protests in support of Anna Hazare, thousands took to the streets on the second day after Hazare was arrested by Delhi Police and sent to the Tihar Jail.

Hazare was released late Tuesday, but continued to stay at Tihar demanding an unconditional release.

Silent protests, candlelight vigils, human chains, peace walks, car and bike rallies and 'mashaal morcha' (torch rally) were organised in most parts of Mumbai, including a huge gathering at south Mumbai's Azad Maidan.

Lawyers also joined in the protest as they brought out a procession from the court complex in suburban Andheri in north-west Mumbai.

More than 5,000 students and faculty from Indian Institute of Technology - Mumbai also formed a five-km human chain on Wednesday to support Hazare's demand for a stronger Lokpal. More than 10 students from the institute have also pledged for a daylong fast.

Over 5,000 members of the Diamond Merchants' Association and 2,000 members from Dhobi Talao, Mumbai's washermen community, also joined Hazare's supporters at Azad Maidan.

Former army-men also lent their support to Hazare through a march in Powai in north-west Mumbai.

Mill workers, taximen and motormen also joined in the protest. However, they continued to ferry commuters keeping in tune with Hazare's idea of peaceful protests.

Ad-man Bharat Dabholkar and chairman of All India Imam Parishad Maulana Mufti were among those who addressed the protesters.