business-slumps-in-delhi-markets-post-red-fort-blast

Delhi’s Red Fort blast turned the streets of the central market quiet. The fear of Monday’s blast still lingers in the minds of not only the locals but the business community, too. The trade has been heavily affected in wholesale hubs like Sadar Bazaar and Chandni Chowk, which typically see heavy business during the festive and wedding season. Following this, many outstation buyers are now opting for online orders instead of visiting in person.

 

"Usually, this is our peak period as traders from other states come to buy items for weddings and winter. But now, most of them are opting for online purchases. We've seen nearly a 50 per cent decline in footfall since the blast. The local police and the Sadar Bazaar Association are jointly verifying the workers employed in the market to ensure everyone's safety,” said Paramjeet Singh Pamma, President of the Sadar Bazaar Association.

 

Sanjai Bhargaw, Chandni Chowk Traders' Association’s head, said, "The area has slowed down completely. Only a handful of customers are visiting the market." He further stated that both customers and traders are still gripped by fear. It will take at least a month for things to return to normal. Many customers are hesitant to come, and some shopkeepers whose stores are near the blast site are still too scared to open their shops.”

 

Talking about Lajpat Rai Market —  known for its electronic goods, located near Chandni Chowk — remained almost completely shut, with the crowded places being seen empty.

 

"Our shop has been closed for the past two days. We only come to check and then leave," said Subhash Rai, a shopkeeper in the market.

 

"This incident has not only affected our livelihood but has also created a constant sense of fear that anything can happen anytime," he added.