As the winter chill begins to sweep through Cox’s Bazar, the demand for warm clothing has surged among residents.
With cooler mornings and brisk winds in the evenings, makeshift van markets selling affordable winter wear have sprung up along the town’s streets, intersections, and market entrances.
From Kolatoli and Laboni Point to the Ramu-Teknaf Highway, as well as Bazarghata and Barabazar, these van-based stalls are drawing shoppers of all ages.
For low-income families, these temporary street shops have become a blessing. Vendors say sweaters are selling for Tk 100–250, woollen caps 50–100, and children’s woollen wear for Tk 150–200.
Vendor Rafique shared, “As soon as winter arrived, people started buying clothes directly from the vans. Prices are lower than in shops, so customers prefer coming to us.”
Shoppers echoed the same sentiment:
“Prices are higher inside the markets. Here, we get good-quality items at lower prices, so we’re buying from the vans.”
With temperatures continuing to drop, these van markets remain busy well into the night. Their affordability is attracting buyers from lower- and middle-income groups alike.
As winter settles in across Cox’s Bazar, the vibrant rise of these roadside van markets is not only meeting essential needs—it’s also bringing renewed energy to the local economy.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
