Mahal and Itwari markets in Nagpur fully reopened
Nagpur's Mahal and Itwari markets reopened fully on Monday after a week of tension. A curfew that kept businesses closed and residents indoors ended on Sunday afternoon, allowing normal activities to resume. By Monday, the streets were busy with shoppers and traffic. Most shops and vendors returned to work, although police remained visible in areas where violence had occurred last week. Barricades were mostly removed, with security forces monitoring the situation to prevent further disturbances. Traders expressed relief at being able to reopen their businesses after six days of closure. "We were waiting for this moment," said Ravi Gupta, a trader from Itwari Market. Many felt hopeful seeing people back on the streets. Traffic returned to near normal levels, with autorickshaws back on the roads. However, some affected lanes were still recovering, and some shopkeepers were cautious about reopening. One local shop owner near Chitnis Park mentioned feeling hesitant despite wanting to move forward. Residents were relieved that they could go out again but recognized it would take some time to feel completely normal. The heavy police presence provided some reassurance, yet it also served as a reminder of recent events. Local police said that sensitive areas would continue to be secured in the coming days.