Rajshahi, Mar 25 (V7N) – Rajshahi's Eid markets are experiencing a surge in shoppers, with bustling crowds filling shopping malls and sidewalks as residents prepare for Eid-ul-Fitr.

"The Eid market in Rajshahi is packed. From the big shopping malls to the sidewalks, there is a crowd of buyers everywhere. The sales centers are bustling. Increased pressure has been seen in many markets since the evening. The Eid market is bustling with buyers and sellers haggling until midnight," a local market observer reported.

The RDA market, in particular, has seen an overwhelming influx of shoppers, with men, women, and children navigating the crowded aisles. Women shoppers are notably prevalent, engaging in vigorous bargaining.

"If you enter the city's RDA market, there is no way to get out without getting bumped. There is no space to step in this market. Men, women, and children are all busy. The number of female buyers in the market is comparatively higher. Matching and bargaining are going on in the shops," a market attendee described.

However, concerns have arisen regarding price gouging, with some sellers reportedly inflating prices, causing frustration among buyers.

"In many shops, sellers are raising prices as they wish. Buyers have also understood the sellers' manipulation. There is a complex price-gouging going on. However, many buyers are getting annoyed by this price-gouging," a shopper stated.

Despite the price concerns, markets have been meticulously prepared for Eid, featuring decorative arcades and well-maintained shops. High demand is observed for women's and children's clothing, as well as traditional Rajshahi silk products and Punjabi outfits.

"Since the beginning of Ramadan, the markets of Rajshahi have been prepared for Eid this year. Beautiful arcades have been built in front of several markets. The vendors have cleaned the shops and made them shiny. Pressure from buyers has been observed in the markets since the first week of this month. However, after the 10th, the markets are crowded," a trader confirmed.

Popular shopping destinations include the RDA Market, Sonadighi intersection, Municipal Market, and New Market, with the latter offering a raffle draw to attract customers.

"Shops in the city's RDA Market, Sonadighi intersection, Municipal Market and New Market areas are seeing a lot of customers. The crowd is the highest in RDA Market. This year, New Market has been decorated in a new way on the occasion of Eid. To attract customers, the traders here have arranged a raffle draw," a market representative stated.

Traders are optimistic about sales, despite initial slow business, while shoppers are attempting to secure desired items within their budgets.

"Anwar Hossain, a textile trader at RDA Market, said they completed their preparations by the 15th of last month. Sales have started since then. However, business has not been as good as he had hoped. He is expecting good business in the coming days," a business report revealed.

Security measures have been heightened, with increased police presence and collaboration with market traders to ensure a safe shopping environment.

"Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Commissioner Mohammad Abu Sufian said that since the beginning of Ramadan, the police security system has been changed to a new format. The number of police has also been increased. The police are always working to ensure security during Sehri, Iftar, and at night. In addition, the police are also working at the Eid market. Detective police are also working in plain clothes," a police statement confirmed.

The Rajshahi Businessmen Coordination Council and local law enforcement are working together to maintain order and security, ensuring a smooth Eid shopping experience.

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