Eid enthusiasm filled the markets of Kashmir
As the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, markets in Kashmir are bustling with activity as residents flock to shopping centers for their festive shopping. With the festival expected to be celebrated in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday or Thursday, there has been a significant increase in purchasing of bakery products, mutton and clothes.
In anticipation of Eid-ul-Fitr, major markets in Srinagar and other districts are transformed into vibrant centers decorated with colorful displays of clothing, toys and crafts. Mannequins dressed in traditional attire entice customers to partake in the festive shopping. , which increases the celebratory atmosphere even more.
Demand for food items, especially mutton, bakery items and sweets has increased, leading to long queues outside retail outlets for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Along with the district headquarters, Jamia Masjid, Goni Kahan Bazaar, Major markets including Sairbal, Lambert Lane and Batamaloo saw a surge in footfall as eager customers flocked to make purchases.
Despite the bustling activity, traders have expressed concern over lower-than-expected sales and declining turnover. While demand for mutton and bakery products remains high, sales in other segments of the market are below average.
According to traders, one of the factors contributing to this disparity is the rise of e-commerce, which has diverted a portion of local buyers. Additionally, skyrocketing prices have further hampered sales, with the government restricting prices. The government has opted to eliminate price regulation mechanisms rather than deregulate. The combination of higher prices and changing consumer habits has posed challenges for local businesses, affecting their sales during the festive season.
Commenting on the current situation of the markets, Kashmir Trade Alliance President Aijaz Shahdhar noted the discrepancy between the increasing crowd and sluggish sales, saying, “Despite seeing an increase in the number of people frequenting the streets and markets, this There has been no impact of the increased activity.” Brisk business.”
He attributed this trend mainly to low purchasing power among the population. Shahdhar highlighted that the demand for mutton, bakery and confectionery items remains as strong as in previous years, but the overall demand for the items is lower than pre- Below COVID levels.
“This points to the pandemic’s lingering impact on consumer spending habits, with some segments of the market experiencing lower demand than before the pandemic,” he said. Batamaloo Traders Association Peer Imtiaz, Chairman, expressed concern over the government’s way of handling prices of essential commodities.
Criticizing the decision to decontrol prices, he said that since this move there is minimal control on the prices of essential commodities. Imtiaz stressed that the rising prices of commodities are responsible for the shortfall in demand seen in the market. Prices were an important factor.
