Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Jun 5: With Eid-ul-Adha approaching, the markets across Kashmir are witnessing a gradual increase in the flow of shoppers as the people prepare for the grand festival.
While the shopping frenzy is yet to reach its peak, areas such as Lal Chowk in Srinagar, along with local markets in other districts, are witnessing a steady influx of shoppers.
Shops in Srinagar are witnessing a modest increase in customer footfall as families begin preparations for the festival. While overall sales remain muted, traders are hopeful that business will pick up in the final days. “Sales are still slow, but we hope things improve by tomorrow,” Mushtaq Ahmad, a local shop owner, said.
“Alhamdulillah, business is picking up. We pray this trend continues across the Valley,” Yaseen Khan, a trader, said.
Some store owners are facing challenges due to competition from online shopping. “More customers are browsing in stores, but they eventually prefer to purchase online, where they can find discounts. It’s a growing concern for traditional businesses,” said a footwear vendor in Srinagar.
Despite this, local bakeries and confectioneries are seeing steady business as customers stock up on traditional sweets.
The shopping fever, however, is not confined to Srinagar alone. Markets in Baramulla and other northern districts are experiencing a noticeable surge in activity, with shoppers hunting for last-minute essentials.
Street vendors, particularly those selling henna, bangles, and artificial jewellery, are also doing brisk business, with many young girls seen lining up for mehandi designs.
Prices of goods have been a point of contention for many shoppers. The cost of clothing, footwear, and basic commodities has risen significantly in recent weeks, leaving some families struggling to afford their purchases.
“A simple dress that cost Rs 1,500 last year is now being sold for Rs 2,500. It’s getting harder to manage, especially with the rising prices,” said Mumtaz Ahmad, a shopper in Srinagar. Traders attribute the price hikes to inflation and increased transportation costs.
While the festive shopping is underway, many government employees are facing unexpected financial strain due to issues with salary deductions.
Employees said duplicate EMI deductions from their accounts by J&K Bank left them with little or no balance. “I checked my salary account to buy essentials for Eid, but I found a balance of just Rs 76. Two EMI deductions were made for the same loan. It’s a huge blow,” said a teacher from Baramulla.
Many employees have expressed their concern over the situation, with some borrowing money to manage their expenses. “How are we supposed to celebrate Eid when we can’t even pay for basic needs?” said another government employee.
The Eid shopping rush has also contributed to heavy traffic congestion in Srinagar, with authorities deploying additional personnel to manage the situation. Despite efforts, traffic remains slow-moving, especially near busy shopping areas.
In south Kashmir districts, a significant decline in customer turnout and festive enthusiasm was witnessed across the markets on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, with the famous Chori Bazar in Pulwama, as well as key markets in Anantnag, Shopian, and Kulgam, recording dismal sales.
In Pulwama, the once-bustling Chori Bazar wore a deserted look. “Sales remained at an all-time low this year,” said Basharat Ahmad, a local shopkeeper. “Even during COVID-19, people used to buy something. Now they check prices and leave without buying.”
In Anantnag town, shopkeepers at Reshi Bazaar and Lal Chowk voiced similar concerns. “I used to hire extra staff to manage the rush in previous years, but this time, two people are enough,” said Mudasir Dar, who sells readymade garments. “People are simply not spending due to high prices and stagnant incomes.”
In Shopian, Bashir Ahmad, a garment trader at Gole Chowk, said, “There is no festive atmosphere this time. We’re barely getting enough customers to cover electricity bills.”
In Kulgam, traders in the Main Market blamed a mix of inflation and financial strain. “Families are cutting back on non-essential spending. Eid shopping is now a luxury for many,” said Shabir Lone, a footwear shop owner.
The muted mood has not only impacted retail but also hawkers and roadside vendors. “We used to earn a decent amount during Eid, but this year we’re going home with empty pockets,” said Riyaz Ahmad, a street vendor in Bijbehara.
Meanwhile, an official from the administration said all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth celebrations of Eid-ul-Adha across the valley.
He said market inspections are underway and strict action is being taken against traders found overcharging customers or hoarding essential goods. “We are closely monitoring prices and will not tolerate any exploitation of consumers during the festive season,” the official said. (KNO)
