Jaipur: Walled City markets will remain open till midnight from Nov 1 to 11 during the Diwali shopping season, prompting traders to seek extended metro services till 12.30am to help commuters.The extension follows discussions between traders’ associations, Jaipur Commissionerate and Jaipur Municipal Corporation to ensure clarity on market closing timings. Traders said that last year, despite permission to keep shops open and markets illuminated till 1am, police personnel in several areas asked shopkeepers to down shutters by 11pm. A meeting with the district collectorate is expected this week to avoid a repeat.“Traders spend huge amounts on lights and stocking products during Diwali. Business remains dull, and there is little point in illuminating markets if shops cannot operate late. This year, we have permission to remain open till midnight from Nov 1 to 11,” said Subhash Goyal, president of Jaipur Vyapar Mahasangh.Traders said the metro has become an important mode of transport for shoppers and shopkeepers visiting the Walled City, where parking is a major constraint during the festive rush. They argued that services ending in the late evening would leave those working until midnight with limited commuting options.“It takes around 15 to 20 minutes to wrap up the day’s work after shutting our shops. It would be great if JMRC operated till 1am, considering our problems,” said trader Yogesh Soni.Jaipur Metro Railway Corporation (JMRC) officials said services had been extended during festivals and special occasions in the past. During Diwali last year, trains operated till 11.30pm.“We are discussing the traders’ association’s proposal to run services till 12.30am from Nov 1 to 11. We will take a decision and announce our Diwali schedule soon,” said a metro official.
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