Markets yet to see Eid shopping spree.

RAWALPINDI -- With Eidul Fitr just round the corner, main bazaars and markets in the city have not seen the usual rush of shoppers with traders saying most of the visitors were just doing window shopping due to rising inflation.

The Eid shopping has been dull so far and is not gaining momentum.

Businessmen trading in ready-made dresses, shoes, shirts, cosmetics and other articles say they are yet to do a good business.

Shopping malls are decorated with lights to attract customers. But famous malls at Bank Road, Ghakar Plaza, Chota Bazaar, Moti Bazaar, Bara Bazaar, China Market, Rabi Centre, Commercial Market, Dubai Centre and Murree Road are yet to attract shoppers. Most of the people who visit these markets are seen only checking the prices.

The poor turnout of buyers has been attributed to price hike and economic recession. But some traders are of the opinion that the markets would see rush gradually.

Traders say due to rising inflation, most visitors just check prices and leave

Due to financial constraints, people from modest income groups have cut down their budget while the affluent have nearly completed shopping.

Mohammad Usman, the owner of a garment shop at Moti Bazaar, told Dawn that he kept the shop opened till late night but most of the visitors did window shopping. He said they usually closed shops at midnight.

A shopkeeper at Saddar, Rizwan Bhatti, said people would visit the markets in last five to six days.

He said mostly people visited bazaars for window shopping only.

He said his business was down compared to last year due to the economic recession.

Mrs Waqar...