The Eid shopping has reached its climax in Landi Kotal, tribal Khyber Agency, as a large number of tribesmen flocked bazaars and markets since the beginning of last ten day of the holy month of Ramazan. A huge rush of tribal flanked by their children were seen in the shops of readymade garments/clothes sellers, hosiery, shoes and cosmetics etc. while the shopkeepers have decorated their stalls to attract costumers. Although weather is hot but buyers prefer to visit shops on day time as the bazaar remains closed at evening time due to security reasons.
Kashef Khan, a local shopkeeper deals in children ready-made clothes, hosiery and in traditional caps in Landi Kotal bazaar said, in the current season prices of readymade suit have been raised by the whole sale dealers in Peshawar and other parts of the country while 2%-5% price hiking has been noticed in hosiery and other related products.
Hassan Ali, resident of Shiekh Khel tribal, while buying shoes for his two kids at one of shoes store said, "a slight price hike has been made in the commodity although," adding comparatively, prices of shoes at the local market are much more less than Peshawar.
Fatihullah Shinwari, a shoe seller in the bazaar said, as compare to last years, the locals are least interested in Eid shopping. Unemployment in Fata has reduced buying power of the local consumer that has effected overall situation of the bazaar, he opined. Regarding prices of foot wears Shinwari said, approximately Rs 100-150 per pair price has increased in children and adult shoes although quality of the commodity has improved.
President Anjuman-e-Tajeran, Landi Kotal bazaar, Lal Rahim Shinwari said, local traders and shopkeepers have been directed to strictly follow the price list, which has been issued by the administration and the violator will be dealt accordingly.
It is important to state that this year, the local political administration with support of the shopkeepers union have initiated effective checking mechanism during the month of Ramazan and have curtained unfair activities of hoarders and price hikers to fleece the faithful in the holy month.