18-07-2025
From 100 Shops To Just 6: Silence Grips Janakpuri Delhi Haat As Traders Exit Market
Sarita, a trader who joined in 2023, said her income plunged from Rs 70,000 to just Rs 300, making it impossible to survive with a monthly rent of Rs 10,000 at Janakpuri Haat
Once envisioned as a vibrant cultural and commercial hub, Delhi's Janakpuri Delhi Haat is now staring at possible closure just 11 years after its inauguration. Spread across 8 acres and opened in 2014, the market marked its 11th anniversary on July 13 this year, but celebrations were muted. With footfall plummeting and traders struggling to stay afloat, the once-bustling space now paints a bleak picture of neglect and decline.
Initially built at the considerable expense of Rs 120 crore, the market's current condition is a stark contrast to its past vibrancy. Vendors, many of whom are women balancing business and home responsibilities, are witnessing abysmal sales, often returning home empty-handed at the end of the day. With shop shutters falling one by one, the once bustling Delhi Janakpuri Haat has become deserted, leaving traders no choice but to abandon their shops.
Paramjeet Singh, a trader who set up his shop at Janakpuri Delhi Haat in 2016, lamented the decline. 'When I came here, sales were good, and there were over 100 shops. Now only 6 traders remain," he said. Although occasional customers visit on Saturdays and Sundays, the weekdays are eerily silent due to the lack of events and management initiatives. Despite numerous meetings with the management, there has been no meaningful response or action to address the traders' concerns.
Sarita, another vendor who joined in 2023, highlighted the economic struggle, noting a drastic drop in her income from Rs 70,000 to barely Rs 300. With a rent of Rs 10,000, vendors find it impossible to sustain their businesses. She added, 'A letter was written to the MD, but there was no response."
Wrote To MD, Got No Reply
Shravali Ganguly echoed similar frustrations, stating that the management has clearly communicated that traders can choose to stay or leave, with no plans for future events.
'In this situation, the final decision rests with senior officials. So, we drafted a joint letter to the MD and mailed it, but there has been no response so far. Multiple efforts were made to meet senior authorities, but none were successful. Where should women traders go now? Delhi has a woman Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta. We appeal to her to save Janakpuri Haat from closure and support women entrepreneurs," Ganguly said.
Further complicating the situation, Shweta, another trader, recounted a major fire at Delhi Haat INA on April 30, 2025, which damaged over 30 shops. Unlike the traders at INA who received compensation and rent waivers, Janakpuri traders face continuous operational issues such as frequent electricity problems and electric shocks, with no relief in sight.
'No accident has occurred here so far, yet the premises have been shut down. Despite this, full ticket fare is still being charged, Rs 20 per entry. At the very least, tickets should be made free or the fare reduced. Young visitors often ask why the market remains open when there are no buyers. Without customers, how are vendors expected to sell their goods? We are only incurring losses," Shweta said.
Management Cites This Reason
When Local18 spoke to Anudeep Singh Bedi, the manager posted at the site, he said that some repair work is needed before any events can be planned. 'Teej celebrations are currently scheduled in Pitampura," he added, while assuring that efforts are being made to attract more visitors to the Janakpuri Haat soon.
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First Published:
July 18, 2025, 17:25 IST
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