Sarojini Nagar Traders Protest Closure of Key Access Road Amid Redevelopment Work

Sarojini Nagar, Delhi

New Delhi: Traders in Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, kept their shops closed during the first half of Tuesday to protest the closure of Shri Vinayak Mandir Marg, a critical access road to the bustling market. The National Building Construction Company (NBCC) shut the road as part of the ongoing redevelopment of the Sarojini Nagar area.

According to traders, 19 out of 11 entry points to the market are already blocked, and the closure of Shri Vinayak Mandir Marg—vital for goods transport, private cars, and taxis—will worsen accessibility issues.

In response, NBCC stated that the matter had been reviewed by the Delhi High Court, which approved the closure after considering traffic and related concerns.

However, market associations expressed their frustration in a letter to NBCC, dated November 30. "The closure of Shri Vinayak Mandir Marg to D Avenue will severely impact visitors, residents, shopkeepers, workers, and vendors. This road is also critical for emergency vehicles. We request its retention to maintain accessibility for all stakeholders," wrote Ashok Kumar Kalru, president of the Sarojini Market Shopkeepers’ Association.

The traders also urged NBCC to improve an alternative route from Brigadier Hoshyar Singh Marg to D Avenue, ensuring a minimum width of 12 meters with an additional 1.5-meter footpath.

Ashok Randhawa, president of the Sarojini Nagar Mini Market Traders Association, said, "Despite repeated requests for a comprehensive traffic management plan and proper visitor signage, no action has been taken. If no solution is found soon, traders will have no choice but to observe an indefinite road protest. This decision could destroy our livelihoods."

NBCC defended its actions, stating it is adhering to the redevelopment plan approved by the court. "The court's March 15 order clarified which roads would remain open or closed in the Sarojini Nagar area. Some unscrupulous vendors are spreading rumors for their vested interests," the NBCC corporate communication division claimed.

NBCC highlighted the development of a new access road near the Downtown commercial complex, adjacent to the metro station, providing direct market access. Additionally, a new multilevel parking facility has been constructed to reduce congestion and resolve long-standing parking problems.

Sarojini Nagar, Redevelopment Work