CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Delhi: Rally hits business in 20 markets, traders claim sales decline
New Delhi: The INDIA bloc’s mega rally at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan also had an impact on the capital’s commercial areas. Traders’ bodies claimed that business was affected in around 20 markets because of the rally. Shopkeepers in Connaught Place said sales fell by 30 to 40 percent. However, these figures are based on estimates by traders’ organisations and business owners and have not been independently verified.
According to office-bearers of the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), traffic arrangements were affected in several parts of central Delhi due to the rally. Security arrangements, restrictions on vehicle movement and diversions on road routes made it difficult for customers to reach markets. Traders said footfall in markets on Sunday was lower than on normal days.
Shopkeepers in Connaught Place also complained of a decline in sales. They said many customers did not come for shopping because of traffic restrictions in areas around the rally venue and concerns about crowds. According to some traders, food and beverage outlets, retail shops and other commercial activities were affected.
Traders’ organisations have demanded better traffic management during large political events, keeping normal market activity in mind. They said organisers and the administration should coordinate with trade bodies in advance so that customers and business owners face minimum inconvenience.
Amid debate over the rally’s political objective and its possible impact on commercial activity, traders have demanded that adequate arrangements be made in future for alternative routes, parking and access to markets during such events.
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