Shoppers throng bazaars across Valley; last-minute buying peaks despite cold, wet spell
Irfan Yattoo
Srinagar: Braving intermittent rain and a sharp dip in temperatures, markets across Kashmir witnessed a surge in last-minute Eid shopping on Thursday, with thousands thronging bazaars to complete festive purchases ahead of Eid ul-Fitr.
Amid the ongoing wet spell across Jammu and Kashmir, a festive buzz gripped commercial hubs in Srinagar and other districts, as families, youth, and children poured into markets from early morning, undeterred by inclement weather.
Major markets in Srinagar, including Lal Chowk, Residency Road, and adjoining areas, recorded heavy footfall, while similar scenes were witnessed in north Kashmir’s Pattan town and other district headquarters.
Despite persistent drizzle and chilly conditions, the enthusiasm remained high, with shoppers making the most of brief dry spells to complete purchases of garments, footwear, bakery items, and other essentials.
Traders said the final days before Eid remain crucial for business. Fayaz Ahmad, a garment seller in Pattan, said the rush has picked up despite the weather.
“Rain has affected us at times, but people are still coming in large numbers. Everyone wants to finish shopping before Eid. Children are especially excited for new clothes,” he said.
Another vendor, Showkat Ali, who runs a footwear shop in Pattan, said the evening hours are witnessing more footfall. “Whenever the rain slows down, markets get crowded quickly. People are determined to celebrate Eid properly despite the cold weather,” he said.
In Srinagar, bakery shops saw long queues, with customers purchasing traditional items for the festival. Street vendors and roadside stalls also reported brisk business, selling accessories, bangles and snacks.
Parvez Ahmad, a bakery owner in the city, said demand has surged in the past two days. “Eid preparations are incomplete without bakery items. Even in rain, people are waiting in queues. This is the busiest time for us,” he said.
Parents were seen accompanying children, while youth crowded garment and footwear stores, adding to the festive atmosphere across markets.
However, traders said the ongoing spell of rain and snowfall has slightly impacted overall sales compared to previous years. “Continuous bad weather does slow things down, but Eid shopping cannot stop. People adjust their timings and come out whenever they get a chance,” said Bilal Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Srinagar.
Authorities said traffic movement remained slow in some busy markets due to congestion and wet conditions, but no major disruptions were reported.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast improvement in weather from March 21, raising hopes of smoother Eid celebrations and increased market activity in the coming days.
