Ashfaq Ahmed, Barlekha-Juri (Moulvibazar) Correspondent:
Only two days remain for Eid-ul-Fitr, and the Eid shopping spree is in full swing. From rich to poor, young to old, no one is left behind in the hustle to shop for Eid. Buyers are flocking to sidewalks, small markets, large shopping malls, and bazaars according to their capacity. Consequently, Eid markets across the country, including the capital, are teeming with shoppers. To cater to the demand, traders have stocked local and imported clothes, shoes, sandals, and cosmetics.
In Moulvibazar’s Barlekha Hajiganj Market, the Eid market has picked up momentum in the last days of Ramadan. A visit to various markets on Friday revealed that shopping continues from morning until late at night. From sidewalks to large markets, every corner is buzzing with buyers. Vendors are struggling to manage the crowd, which includes men, women, youth, and children. Meanwhile, lower-income individuals are increasingly frequenting mobile shops on the footpaths. The main roads of the municipal town are lined with makeshift stalls and vans conducting brisk business.
Barlekha, located between Madhabkunda Waterfall and the Hakaluki Haor, has turned into a bustling town adorned with colorful decorations. Buyers are drawn to this city because it offers clothing of varying prices and qualities to cater to all social classes. Hajiganj Market is home to many renowned shopping centers.
When speaking with customers from various parts of the upazila, they mentioned that clothing prices are slightly higher this year. However, they are managing to shop within their budgets. Sadeq Ahmed, who came from Ratuli with his family, said, “Prices in local markets are much higher, so we come here every year for shopping. This market has everything we need.”
Several sellers in Hajiganj Market shared that markets remain crowded from 10 AM until midnight or later. Customers are purchasing items like sarees, three-piece sets, dresses, shirts, pants, T-shirts, shoes, sandals, panjabis, jubbas, lungis, and various cosmetics according to their preferences.
Abdul Hasib, proprietor of Lifestyle and a member of the market management committee, stated, “We have stocked items within the reach of common people. No excessive prices are being charged, although high-quality products are slightly more expensive. Customers can find their desired products here. Compared to previous years, sales are slightly higher this year. To ensure customer safety, we have arranged for a security guard at every market, along with night guards during late hours.”
Barlekha Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abul Kashem Sarkar said, “The police are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of the public during Eid. To facilitate smooth shopping, additional police and traffic officers have been deployed to manage congestion in the market.”
Moulvibazar District Consumer Rights Directorate Assistant Director Md. Al Amin added, “We are closely monitoring to ensure that no trader charges excessive prices for any goods.”
