Siliguri, 24th September: With just a few days left for Durga Puja, one of Siliguri’s busiest shopping destinations, Bidhan Market, is yet to witness the usual festive rush. Traders claim that both customer footfall and sales have remained significantly low this year.
Every year, Bidhan Market sees a heavy rush ahead of Durga Puja, with customers arriving from the morning to shop for new clothes and various Puja-related items. However, traders say the situation is different this year. According to them, prices of almost all types of products have increased compared to last year, while demand has also declined significantly.
The continuous rain has added to the difficulties faced by traders. Many customers are reportedly avoiding the market, directly affecting sales. Some shopkeepers claim that despite keeping their shops open from morning till night, they are not witnessing the expected sales and are having to wait for customers for long periods.
At a time when business is expected to pick up during the Puja season, many traders are worried over the lack of sales. They said it has become difficult to manage shop rent, employee salaries and other expenses under the current circumstances.
However, traders are still hopeful that customer footfall will increase during the final few days before Puja and that sales will gradually pick up.
The coming days will show whether Bidhan Market sees a last-minute surge in shoppers and whether the festive season brings relief to traders.
