Delhi traders have requested the Congress party to delay its scheduled rally at Ramlila Maidan on November 1 until after the Diwali festival. They caution that the event could severely disrupt traffic across significant parts of the city, potentially leading to business losses estimated at Rs 10,000 crore during the peak shopping season.

The Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), which represents various traders and entrepreneurs in the capital, has formally reached out to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, advocating for a change in the rally date. CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal has also sent a copy of this communication to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, urging him to discuss the matter with coalition partners.

In a statement released on October 27, Goyal expressed that traders operating in markets near Ramlila Maidan are apprehensive about potential barricades and road closures ahead of the rally. This concern has intensified following a social media post by Rahul Gandhi regarding the planned protest, which has heightened anxiety among traders who depend on business during this critical time of year.

Projected Attendance and Traffic Estimates

According to CTI, Congress leaders have indicated that approximately 10 lakh individuals from across the country may attend the rally. Based on this estimate, the traders’ organisation anticipates that between 15,000 and 20,000 vehicles could enter Delhi, heading towards Ramlila Maidan.

CTI’s calculations suggest that accommodating such a large crowd would necessitate between 10,000 and 12,000 large buses, alongside an additional 5,000 to 7,000 smaller vehicles, including cars and minibuses. Goyal raised concerns regarding parking, stating that the authorised facilities around Ramlila Maidan can barely accommodate 200 vehicles.

The organisation warned that the influx of vehicles could lead to significant congestion within a 10-kilometre radius of the venue, adversely affecting traders, shoppers, and the transport of goods. The figures provided by CTI are estimates, and the actual turnout and traffic management plans have yet to be confirmed.

Impact on Local Businesses

CTI highlighted that Ramlila Maidan is situated amidst some of Delhi’s busiest commercial areas, with access routes traversing zones critical for wholesale and retail trade. The organisation identified 21 markets that could be impacted, including Chandni Chowk, Khari Baoli, and Sadar Bazaar, which are vital for various goods such as electronics, jewellery, and foodgrains.

The narrow streets in parts of Old Delhi, some measuring only 10 to 12 feet wide, could complicate traffic management. CTI noted that even a single truck becoming stuck in these lanes could result in hours of congestion, affecting not only shoppers but also wholesale deliveries and the transport of goods to other regions.

To substantiate their concerns, CTI referenced a previous event at Jantar Mantar on October 10, which attracted only 3,000 to 4,000 people but caused significant traffic disruptions, resulting in losses of Rs 3,000 crore for traders. Goyal warned that a gathering of 10 lakh people at Ramlila Maidan could lead to even greater economic repercussions.

CTI has urged Congress to consider rescheduling the rally to a date after November 10 to safeguard business activities during the crucial Diwali shopping period. If rescheduling is not feasible, they have suggested relocating the rally to a larger venue, such as Burari Ground or Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, to minimise disruption to local markets.

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