Indore: In a major regulatory move, the Indore district administration has announced new operating rules for the city’s iconic Sarafa Chowpatty, bringing significant changes to shop timings and stall categories. Effective from tonight, only 80 traditional food stalls will be allowed to operate at the location, with all Chinese food carts and gift-item shops ordered to shut down and relocate outside the chowpatty zone.
The decision, officials said, aims to restore Sarafa’s authentic culinary identity and ensure a more organised environment for visitors. To reinforce the new system, strict monitoring will begin tonight, with teams from the administration and municipal corporation deployed to ensure compliance.
Under the revised rules, shops at Sarafa Chowpatty will now operate strictly between 9 PM and 12 midnight. Any commercial activity beyond this time frame will not be permitted. Authorities have warned that violators will face immediate action.
The move comes amid a two-year-long conflict between gold and silver jewellers of the Sarafa market and chowpatty vendors. Jewellers argued that evening food stalls obstruct customer movement, affect business operations, and pose security risks—especially due to LPG cylinders in the area. Meanwhile, the chowpatty vendors view the setup as a vital source of livelihood and a part of Indore’s rich food culture.
