Delhi traders urge Gandhi to move November 1 rally

The Chamber of Trade and Industry has urged Rahul Gandhi to postpone the Congress rally planned for November 1 at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan, warning that traffic restrictions could disrupt nearby markets during the Diwali trading period. In a letter dated October 27, the traders’ body asked Gandhi to move the event until after Diwali. It also sent a copy to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and asked him to raise the issue with alliance leaders. CTI proposed Burari Ground or Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium as alternatives if the November 1 date is retained. CTI said at least 20 wholesale and retail markets around Ramlila Maidan could be affected if road closures, barricades or traffic diversions prevent customers from reaching shops. It warned that restrictions could begin October 31 and continue on the rally date. The markets named include Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Khari Baoli, Bhagirath Palace, Chawri Bazaar, Kashmere Gate and Karol Bagh. The organisation estimated that about 10 lakh people could attend. It calculated that the crowd might require 10,000 to 12,000 buses, along with 5,000 to 7,000 other vehicles, for a total of 15,000 to 20,000 vehicles. Those figures are CTI...