In run up to Eid, Srinagar markets abuzz with shoppers

Srinagar, Mar 29: In the run-up to the Eid-ul-Fitr markets across Srinagar are abuzz with shoppers amid the festive atmosphere.

The markets, including downtown and City Center Lal-Chowk, wear a festive looks ahead of Eid.

Like every year markets in Lal Chowk, Nowhatta, Goni Khan, Maharaj Bazar, Amira Kadal, Hazratbal, Jamia Masjid area are full of shoppers who are making purchases ahead of Eid.

Nazir Ahmad Shah, president of Shahr-e-Khaas Traders Alliance said business has picked up due to Eid shopping. “There is massive rush in markets. We have offered special discounts in all shops in Downtown and response is overwheling,” Shah said.

However, Shah urged authorities to streamline vehicular movement to ensure hassle free movement of commuters.

Manzoor Malik, general secretary of Goni Khan Market, said that for the past few days, the rush of shoppers has increased, which gives them hope of a good trade ahead of Eid.

“Goni Khan market is famous and caters to thousands of shoppers regularly. This market caters mostly to women, and we have been seeing a huge rush of shoppers shopping for the Eid festival, which is just a few days ahead. The market deals with clothing, foot wear, kitchen items and numerous other products and that is why we see huge rush of people ahead Eid,” Malik said.

He said that the traders body have kept the market open on Sundays to cater to the rush of customers. “We do this every year so that people can have maximum days to shop” he added.

Meanwhile the markets in Downtown including famous Nowhata and Jamia Masjid market are wearing a festive look, with shoppers across Srinagar and other districts coming to shop for various items.

“The rush after 3 pm is huge, and every shop is abuzz. This is the famous market, and we come here to buy things for our children and also every kind of house item, including matting and other things. The quality, prices, and range of choices make this market a favorite among shoppers,” said Irfan Ahmad, a shopper.

The markets of other downtown areas are also abuzz ahead of Eid. While some people are buying colourful clothes and shoes, markets like Bohri Kadal are a favorite among people who want to buy aromatic spices for Eid feasts.

“The downtown markets are famous for numerous items like spices and every other kind of goods. The past few days have witnessed a huge rush of shoppers, and we expect more rush of shoppers in the coming days,” Ayaz Zehgeer from Beopar Mandal Maharaj Gunj said.

The shopper and traders however appeal authorities to ensure better traffic management. They said the traffic mess around markets is taking a toll on them amid Eid rush.