Delhi’s major markets could face disruption to business worth around Rs 250 crore a day if political demonstrations, road blockades and traffic restrictions affect movement during the festive and wedding season, traders have warned.
The warning comes as businesses prepare for the peak trading period from October 2026 to January 2027, when demand typically rises around Navratri, Dussehra, Diwali, Chhath Puja, Christmas, New Year and weddings.
Traders Seek Dedicated Protest Zones
The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has urged the government to designate specific locations for political protests so that demonstrations do not disrupt commercial activity.
CAIT National Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said Delhi records daily trade turnover of around Rs 500 crore to Rs 600 crore, with business worth approximately Rs 250 crore in Old Delhi and New Delhi markets potentially affected by disruptions.
The traders said road closures and traffic restrictions could prevent customers from reaching markets and delay the movement of goods, affecting retailers as well as suppliers, transport operators, employees and small businesses.
Delhi Markets Serve Traders From Across India
According to CAIT and other trade bodies, Delhi has more than 10 lakh business establishments that support over one crore livelihoods. Around five lakh traders from outside the capital visit the city daily for business, they said.
Disruptions in major commercial areas could therefore affect not only local retailers but also supply chains and businesses in other parts of the country.
Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar Among Key Areas
In a joint appeal, trade associations called on authorities to keep major commercial areas, including Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar and Connaught Place, accessible during the peak season.
They also urged the government to ensure that demonstrations remain confined to designated venues and are limited in duration, while keeping Delhi’s borders and main roads open for the movement of people and goods.
The appeal was supported by the New Delhi Traders Association, Khan Market Traders Association, Delhi Iron and Hardware Merchants Association, Delhi Drug Dealers Association, Cloth Market Fatehpuri and Delhi Electrical Merchants Association.
“Politics has its own place, and business has its own,” the associations said in a joint statement, stressing that protests should not come at the cost of commercial activity during the crucial trading season.