Times of Navi Mumbai | India News
Traders in Delhi have requested Congress leader Sonia Gandhi to postpone the INDIA bloc’s rally planned for November 1 at Ramlila Maidan. They fear that the event could cause major traffic problems and hurt their businesses during the busy Diwali shopping season.
The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has written a letter to Sonia Gandhi, asking her to hold the rally after Diwali. The traders say around 10 lakh people and 15,000 to 20,000 vehicles may come to Central Delhi for the event.
Why Are Traders Worried?
Diwali is one of the busiest times for shops and markets. Dhanteras will be celebrated on November 6, while Diwali falls on November 8.
Traders say November 1 is an important day for bringing goods into shops and preparing for festival sales. They fear that heavy traffic and road closures could stop trucks from reaching the markets.
CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal said traders are not against the rally. He said their only concern is protecting their businesses and the income of thousands of people who depend on these markets.
20 Markets Could Be Affected
The traders have warned that traffic problems could affect around 20 major markets in Central Delhi.
These include Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar, Connaught Place, Karol Bagh, Khari Baoli, Chawri Bazar, Gaffar Market and Daryaganj.
According to CTI, these markets together have daily business worth around ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 crore. The traders also said thousands of trucks and small goods vehicles bring products to these markets every day.
They fear that transporters may stop sending goods because of traffic jams and road restrictions.
Traders Suggest Two Options
To avoid problems, CTI has suggested two options:
- Hold the rally after November 10, when the main festive shopping rush is over.
- If the rally must happen on November 1, move it to Burari Maidan.
Why Is the INDIA Bloc Holding the Rally?
The INDIA bloc has called the rally to protest against alleged vote tampering and to raise concerns about democracy and the Constitution.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has said the rally is not only for one political party but for people who want to protect democratic values.
The traders are now waiting for a response from the Congress leadership. They say they want the rally to take place without affecting Delhi’s businesses during the important festive season.
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