Traders in Bhopal will stage another protest on Wednesday against the ongoing sealing drives and notices issued by the municipal corporation over commercial activities in residential areas. This time, the business community plans to adopt a Gandhian method of protest, with a prayer meeting and collective recitation of Ramdhun at the Minto Hall premises.

The traders are expected to gather after 11 am at the Kushabhau Thakre Convention Centre, commonly known as Minto Hall. Led by Chamber president Govind Goyal, representatives of various traders' organisations will participate in the programme. They will assemble before the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, sing Ramdhun and hold a prayer seeking a permanent resolution to the problems faced by traders.

Traders Step Up Protest

The latest programme comes amid growing opposition to the municipal corporation's action against commercial activities being carried out in residential areas.

Traders have held demonstrations at several locations in Bhopal in recent days. A road blockade was organised at Roshanpura Square last week, followed by protests in Bagsewania, Awadhpuri, 10 Number Market and Anand Nagar.

The protests have also drawn participation from residents, although their position differs from that of traders.

Residents Oppose Commercial Activity

A residents' association organised a torchlight rally in Gulmohar Colony on Saturday. Residents had also taken out a rally at Seven Number Market last week.

Residents have maintained that commercial activities should not be permitted in residential localities. The issue has therefore brought traders and residents into opposing positions over the use of properties in residential areas.

Business Owners Concerned

The municipal action has created concern among traders operating from buildings designated for residential use. Areas including Awadhpuri, Ayodhya Bypass, Gautam Nagar, Ashoka Garden and Lalghati have seen businesses come under scrutiny.

Following the issuance of notices, some traders are reportedly looking for alternative premises in designated commercial areas amid uncertainty over the continuation of their businesses.

Urban planning experts have also pointed to the importance of proper land-use planning. According to the view cited by the traders, timely implementation of a master plan could have helped clearly distinguish residential and commercial areas and potentially avoided the present situation.

Survey Expanded Across City

The municipal corporation has begun surveying buildings along major roads as well as lanes connected to them. Officials are also examining construction and land-use violations in areas near rivers and water bodies.

Green belts, buffer zones and catchment areas are among the locations being given priority during the survey. Illegal marriage gardens are also expected to face notices as part of the ongoing action.

The municipal drive follows the implementation of directions concerning commercial activities in residential areas. The traders, meanwhile, are seeking a solution that allows affected businesses to continue operations while complying with applicable regulations.

Wednesday's prayer meeting is being positioned by the traders as a peaceful and Gandhian form of protest rather than another road demonstration.