Traders recall 2005 serial blasts, say nothing has changed in two decades

DELHI'S prominent markets, Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, and others wore a tense look on Tuesday as traders recalled the memories of the 2005 serial blasts that had ripped through major shopping hubs of the city and questioned the lack of preparedness even after two decades.

- IFRAH MUFTI @ New Delhi

The security arrangements were visibly tighter at the Lajpat Nagar market, which is considered to be one of the busiest markets. Police presence was heightened, entry and exit points were barricaded, and parking areas were closely monitored.

"The arrangements in the market are much more appreciable today," said Kuldeep Kumar, president of the Lajpat Nagar Market Welfare Traders Association. "The police were actually active today, probably taking lessons from last evening's incident. There was zero encroachment and proper checking, and we felt relaxed," he added.