CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Delhi: Delhi rally may put Rs 10 thousand crore business at risk, traders write to Sonia Gandhi
New Delhi. Traders’ concerns have grown over the proposed Congress and INDIA alliance mega rally at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on 1 November. The capital’s traders’ body, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), has written to Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, appealing for a change in the rally date. The organisation says business in nearly 20 major wholesale and retail markets of Delhi could be affected because of the rally. Traders have expressed apprehension that trade worth Rs 10 thousand to 12 thousand crore may be impacted.
According to CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal, several major markets, including Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Khari Baoli, Bhagirath Palace, Kashmiri Gate, Chawri Bazaar, Karol Bagh and Connaught Place, are located within a five-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan. Thousands of traders, customers and goods vehicles reach these markets every day. The organisation estimates that nearly 10 lakh people may attend the rally, and 15 to 20 thousand vehicles may be needed for their movement.
Traders fear that such a large crowd could lead to traffic jams on key routes such as JLN Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg and Ajmeri Gate. This could affect customer access to markets and the supply of goods. The organisation said business is already at its peak during the festive season. With Dhanteras on 6 November and Diwali on 8 November, this period is extremely important for traders.
CTI has requested Sonia Gandhi to hold the rally after 10 November. Alternatively, the organisation has suggested shifting the rally venue from Ramlila Maidan to Burari Ground. The organisation clarified that it is not opposing the rally, but wants to avoid possible difficulties for traders and ordinary citizens during the festive season. A response from the Congress leadership to the traders’ demand is awaited.
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