Bhopal and Indore face alleged sidewalk extortion and traffic diversions

In Bhopal and Indore, reports indicate significant alleged extortion involving temporary sidewalk vendors during the festive season. In Bhopal’s New Market, an estimated 86.25 lakh rupees could be collected over 15 days through various fees charged to approximately 500 small temporary shops and 100 larger stalls. Similarly, in Indore’s Rajwada area, approximately 400 temporary stalls are estimated to generate around 84 lakh rupees in the same period, based on daily rates ranging from 300 to 1,400 rupees per stall. These figures are estimates based on reported activity and are not officially certified.

Separately, Bhopal traffic police have announced major route diversions effective until November 17 due to ongoing Metro Rail construction. Traffic traveling from ITI Tiraha to Piplani Petrol Pump junction will be diverted through the Govindpura Industrial Area. Specific routes have also been established for light vehicles and two-wheelers heading toward Govindpura and Awadhpuri, as well as specialized paths for heavy vehicles to navigate around construction zones near Mahatma Gandhi Chauraha and Carrier College Tiraha.