Auto Expo attracts fewer visitors than expected

The recently concluded India Auto Expo attracted fewer visitors this year than it did in 2008, when the Tata Nano was unveiled. Approximately 1.2 million people attended the show this year, compared to 1.8 million in 2008, said Mr Vishnu Mathur, one of the show’s organisers. The lower turnout is being attributed to the restrictions imposed on show organizers and the timings, with tickets available only till 3 pm and entry restricted from 5 pm. Stage shows too were stopped by the police on Sunday to keep the crowd moving.

Over 4 lakh people attended the Expo on Saturday and Sunday. There were massive traffic jams outside the venue, as well as reports of general mismanagement. Organisers are considering shifting the venue to a different location to better manage it. Another option is to split the show and host smaller gatherings at different times during the year. However, this may not be acceptable to auto component makers who cater to all vehicle segments, and for whom the Auto Expo is a major event to display their products.