Lucknow: Anger is mounting among traders in Telibagh market after the Lucknow Development Authority issued notices to hundreds of shopkeepers under provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973. The move has triggered strong opposition, with traders calling it unjust and impractical.
Under the banner of Uttar Pradesh Adarsh Vyapar Mandal, a large meeting was held in Telibagh market, where hundreds of traders gathered to voice their concerns. The meeting was led by the organizations state president Sanjay Gupta.
Traders alleged that the notices demand building maps (sanctioned plans) for structures that are decades old—some built 50 years ago, while others are 30–40 years old. They argued that expecting documentation for such old constructions is unreasonable, especially when authorities failed to act at the time of construction.
“Shopkeepers have purchased these properties and are earning their livelihood through them. Issuing sealing notices now is unfair and amounts to harassment,” traders said during the meeting.
Addressing the gathering, Sanjay Gupta stated that markets which are naturally functioning as commercial hubs—with over 90 percent business activity—should be officially declared as “market streets” by the government. He announced that a signature campaign will be conducted in Telibagh from March 29 to April 2 to consolidate traders’ demands.
The memorandum prepared through the campaign will be submitted to key authorities, including the local MLA, Defence Minister, Urban Development Minister, and the Chief Minister, urging them to grant “market street” status to Telibagh. Gupta also demanded similar recognition for other major markets in Lucknow, such as Kapurthala, Patrakarpuram, and Sitapur Road.
He further suggested that buildings constructed over 15 years ago should be regularised, similar to residential colonies, and that necessary amendments be made in zonal and master plans to accommodate long-standing commercial usage.
Warning of intensified agitation, Gupta said the traders’ body would not hesitate to take to the streets if their demands are ignored. “Traditional traders are already under pressure. Such notices only add to their difficulties. We will not allow their harassment at any cost,” he asserted.
The meeting was attended by several local trader representatives, including Rajan Mishra, Raju Bajpai, Rajesh Chawla, Alok Goyal, Aanchal Sahu, Ashok Gupta, and many others, reflecting widespread support for the campaign.
With tensions rising, traders have made it clear that they expect swift intervention from the authorities to resolve the issue and protect their livelihoods.
