As the holy month of Ramadan reaches its middle phase and Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, footpath markets in Cox’s Bazar town have become a source of relief for low and middle-income shoppers. With clothing and essential items available at comparatively lower prices, these roadside stalls are drawing large numbers of customers.
The Lal Dighi Par area of the town saw a heavy crowd of shoppers on Thursday evening. Temporary stalls set up along the footpaths were selling various Eid-related items, including children’s clothes, panjabis, caps, and three-piece outfits. Vendors said brisk sales continue from morning until late at night.
Customer Saiful Islam said that the prices of products on the footpaths are much lower than in markets and shopping malls. He added that he came here to buy Eid clothes for his entire family and was able to find good-quality garments at affordable prices.
Another shopper, Rubina Akter, said that for families like theirs from low and middle-income backgrounds, the footpath markets provide a wonderful sense of relief. She noted that they can buy Eid clothes for their children at a relatively low cost.
Footpath vendor Abdul Hakim said the number of buyers is increasing as Eid draws nearer, with the crowd becoming particularly large in the evenings. Many people prefer to shop at these roadside stalls because of their lower prices.
Meanwhile, crowds have also been noticed in different shopping complexes and markets across the town. As Eid draws near, a festive shopping atmosphere permeates the entire city.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Mohammad Morshed
