India, Oct. 18 -- Repeated protests, police barricades and traffic restrictions in central Delhi are taking a toll on businesses in Connaught Place, Khan Market and Palika Bazaar, with traders warning that disruptions during the festive season are threatening their livelihoods and putting months of preparation at risk. For shopkeepers, October is a crucial period when festive shopping, wedding purchases and tourist visits typically boost sales. However, traders say the uncertainty surrounding access to commercial areas has discouraged customers from visiting markets, leaving shops struggling to generate revenue while fixed expenses continue to mount.

At Connaught Place, one of the capital's busiest shopping and commercial destinations, t...