Sans buyers, markets in Patiala largely deserted

Tribune News Service

Patiala, November 12

Covid-19 pandemic has made Diwali a low-key affair for city shopkeepers. People are visiting only a few markets for shopping. Shopkeepers say pandemic has reduced the buying capacity of residents.

So far, Dharampura Bazaar, Anardana Chowk and market area near Qila Mubarak have received a lukewarm shopping response from the people. Montu, a shop owner near Qila Mubarak said, “Few people are coming for shopping. The footfall in the market is below 50 per cent. Out of 50 to 60 visitors only eight to 10 buy an item or two.”

Roads at Dharampura Bazaar are nearly deserted. Only few areas in the city have been decorated with electric lights. An electronics shop owner in Dharampura Bazaar said, “Earlier, shops were abuzz with customers. Buyers turnout is extremely low this year.”

People have lost jobs due to Covid-19. Markets are almost empty. Some eating joints in our area have closed as there is no business. Even farmers’ protest is taking a toll on business. Farmers used to buy things from city markets, but now they are sitting on dharnas. —Kulwinder Singh, vice-president, Leela Bhawan Market Association

A retail chain store employee said the sale was adversely affected this season. Another shop owner in the Tripuri area selling Diwali gifts said, “We are forced to sell items on discount. People are buying less gifts.”

Kulwinder Singh, vice-president, Leela Bhawan Market Association, said the sale was only 30 per cent. “People have lost jobs due to Covid-19. Markets are empty. Some eating joints in our area have closed as there is no business. Even farmers’ protest is taking a toll on business. Farmers used to buy things from city markets, but now they are sitting on dharnas.”