Srinagar, Mar 30: A festive atmosphere swept across the Kashmir Valley on Sunday on the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the culmination of the holy month of Ramazan.
Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on either Monday or Tuesday, depending on the sighting of the crescent on Sunday.
Markets across Kashmir were bustling with shoppers eagerly engaged in last-minute purchases. Bakery and butcher shops witnessed the heaviest rush, while Srinagar’s old city markets were abuzz with increased activity.
Young children accompanied their parents for Eid shopping in various markets across Srinagar. Mehndi artists were in high demand, with women and young girls lining up at roadside stalls to decorate their hands with intricate designs.
However, local businesspersons claimed a noticeable slump in overall sales.
Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibet Baqal said that, apart from bakery, grocery, and meat products, sales have plummeted by 70% this Eid.
“People mainly purchased essential items for this Eid. The slump in sales can be attributed to several factors, including delayed payments to contractors,” he explained.
He further noted that reduced purchasing power has also contributed to the overall decline in festive spending.
The weather is expected to remain mainly dry over the next 72 hours, providing a pleasant backdrop for festive gatherings.
According to Srinagar’s Meteorological Department, the weather is likely to remain dry till the next three days.
