2.5 Lakh Shops May Shut, 80% of Business Hit in Delhi: Traders Raise Alarm Ahead of Rahul Gandhi’s Mega Rally

New Delhi: Delhi’s trading community has expressed serious concerns over the potential disruption caused by the mega rally scheduled for November 1 at Ramlila Maidan. The Chamber of Trade and Industry has warned that nearly 2.5 lakh shops could remain closed, while around 80% of business activity may come to a standstill due to restrictions and transportation disruptions.

In its fourth letter to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the CTI highlighted the possible economic impact of the rally on traders and businesses across the national capital. The traders’ body also claimed that transport operations within a 10-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan could be severely disrupted.

Interestingly, Rahul Gandhi had recently appealed to rally participants through a video message to visit Delhi’s local markets and shop, expressing support for the trading community. While welcoming the gesture, the CTI said the situation on the ground presents a contrasting picture, with widespread apprehension among traders about the arrangements for the event.

2.5 Lakh Shops Likely to Remain Closed
CTI Chairman Brijesh Goyal said that nearly 3 lakh shops operate in markets surrounding Ramlila Maidan, of which approximately 2.5 lakh are expected to remain shut due to the anticipated disruption.

He pointed out that several prominent commercial hubs within a 5-kilometre radius of the rally venue could be affected. These include Kashmiri Gate, Mori Gate, Janpath, Chandni Chowk, Chawri Bazar, Khari Baoli, Naya Bazar, Sadar Bazar, Ajmeri Gate, Daryaganj, Paharganj, Kamala Market, Jama Masjid, Bhagirath Palace, Lajpat Rai Market, Kinari Bazar, Dariba Kalan, Ballimaran, Fatehpuri, Tilak Bazar, Connaught Place, Palika Bazar and Gaffar Market.

Together, these markets account for a significant share of Delhi’s retail and wholesale trade.

Transport Disruptions Pose Biggest Challenge
According to Goyal, the biggest concern for traders is the expected disruption to transportation and the movement of goods. He claimed that transport services within a 10-kilometre radius of Ramlila Maidan could come to a virtual standstill.

The restrictions are expected to affect loading and unloading operations, the movement of commercial vehicles and the transportation of goods into and out of major markets.

The CTI warned that such disruptions could severely affect wholesale and retail businesses, particularly those dependent on daily supplies and deliveries.

With the mega rally scheduled for November 1, traders have raised concerns over potential business losses and the disruption of normal commercial activities across several key markets in Delhi.