Delhi traders have urged the Congress to postpone its November 1 rally at Ramlila Maidan until after Diwali, warning that the gathering could disrupt business across major commercial districts and cause estimated losses of up to ₹10,000 crore during the festive shopping season.
The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), which represents traders and entrepreneurs in the capital, has written to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi seeking a change in the rally date. CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal has also sent the letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, requesting discussions with alliance partners.
In a statement issued on October 27, Goyal said traders near Ramlila Maidan were concerned about possible barricading and road closures, potentially beginning on October 31. The organisation questioned whether customers, delivery vehicles and shopkeepers would be able to access markets during the restrictions.
Delhi Rally Could Trigger Major Traffic Disruptions
According to CTI, Congress leaders have indicated that approximately 10 lakh people could attend the rally. Based on this projected turnout, the traders' body estimates that 15,000 to 20,000 vehicles could enter Delhi, including 10,000 to 12,000 large buses and 5,000 to 7,000 smaller vehicles.
CTI has raised concerns about parking capacity around Ramlila Maidan, claiming that authorised facilities cannot accommodate even 200 vehicles. It warned that congestion could spread within a 10-kilometre radius, affecting shoppers, commercial transport and wholesale deliveries.
These attendance and vehicle figures are estimates provided by CTI. Actual turnout and traffic arrangements remain uncertain.
21 Commercial Markets Could Be Affected
CTI identified 21 markets and commercial areas potentially vulnerable to disruption, including Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Bhagirath Palace, Khari Baoli, Chawri Bazaar, Kashmere Gate, Karol Bagh, Daryaganj, Paharganj and the Red Fort-Lajpat Rai Market area.
These districts handle substantial trade in electronics, spices, dry fruits, jewellery, books, hardware, machinery, furniture and foodgrains.
The traders' body highlighted the narrow lanes of Old Delhi, some measuring just 10 to 12 feet wide, arguing that even a single stalled truck can cause prolonged congestion.
Traders Seek Alternative Date or Venue
To support its concerns, CTI cited an October 10 event at Jantar Mantar, claiming that traffic restrictions following a gathering of 3,000 to 4,000 people caused losses of ₹3,000 crore. This figure has not been independently verified.
CTI estimates that disruption from the November 1 rally could result in losses of up to ₹10,000 crore, depending on attendance, traffic management and the duration of restrictions.
The organisation has suggested holding the rally after November 10. If postponement is not possible, it has proposed alternative venues, including Burari Ground and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.
The request comes during a crucial period for Delhi's retailers, when festive demand for clothing, jewellery, electronics and household goods typically increases. The Congress leadership's response to the request was not specified in the supplied report.
Relevant link: Government of Delhi official website
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