Shopping frenzy grips markets

Express Tribune

30-03-2025

Women explore the bustling jewelry stores of Moti Bazaar, Rawalpindi, in search of the perfect accessories to complete their Eid outfits. PHOTO: AGHA MAHROZ/EXPRESS
The last Sunday before Eid which also marks Chand Raat (Eid's eve) is witnessing overwhelming crowds in commercial centres.
Security has been heightened, with the deployment of female security personnel, bicycle patrol squads, and female police commandos in the markets.
Rawalpindi's largest women-only shopping hub, Moti Bazaar, has become completely congested due to an overwhelming number of female shoppers.
The movement has become difficult, and incidents of pickpocketing by female thieves have surged— 24 women reported their purses stolen in a single day.
Police arrested two female pickpockets in connection with the thefts.
To control the situation, authorities have banned young men from entering Moti Bazaar after repeated complaints of harassment.
Now, only men accompanying female family members—wives, sisters, or daughters—are allowed access on Saturday and Chand Raat.
With Eid just days away, shopping in the twin cities has reached its peak, resulting in massive traffic congestion across commercial hubs.
In Rawalpindi, roads leading to Commercial Market, Chandni Chowk, Rehmanabad, Raja Bazaar, Fawara Chowk, Bani Chowk, and Moti Bazaar are witnessing severe gridlock, making both vehicle movement and pedestrian access difficult.
Temporary stalls set up by vendors have further clogged market spaces, especially with the closure of Ramazan discount bazaars. Traffic jams are worsening as parking spaces are consumed by motorcycles and cars, leaving no room for pedestrians.
While thousands flock to buy Eid essentials, the surge in demand has driven up the prices of garments, shoes, and artificial jewellery, making shopping even more expensive.
Many markets, including those in Saddar and Commercial Market, now remain open from 10am until 5am to accommodate late-night shoppers.
Despite heavy deployment of traffic wardens and police, the traffic system has collapsed due to overcrowding.
Special squads of female police officers on bicycles and scooters were introduced for security, but they have been criticised for focusing more on social media activities than law enforcement.
Shoppers continue to pour in from Iftar until Sehri, causing severe vehicle congestion throughout the night.
In key shopping hubs such as Tench Bhatta, Bank Road, Kashmir Road, and Ghakkar Plaza, unregulated parking, illegal stalls, and street vendors have exacerbated the chaos.
According to Traders Association Vice Chairman Hammad Qureshi, the situation is dire due to the lack of parking management and traffic regulation.
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Matching bangles in high demand
our correspondent
ISLAMABAD. As Ramazan nears its end, markets are bustling with women eagerly searching for matching bangles, a cherished part of their Eid celebrations. Shopkeepers have adorned their stalls with a dazzling array of colours and intricate designs, while the rhythmic clinking of glass and metal fills the air.
According to a report aired by a private news channel, women across the twin cities are flocking to market stalls, carefully selecting bangles to complement their Eid outfits. The vibrant tradition of wearing matching bangles on Eid is deeply rooted in South Asian culture, symbolizing joy, festivity, and good fortune.
Shopkeepers note that demand surges every year during the final days of Ramazan, with many believing that the melodious sound of clinking bangles brings prosperity and happiness. This cultural staple remains a must-have accessory, adding a touch of tradition to modern Eid fashion.
Women of all ages take great pride in selecting the perfect matching bangles that complement their Eid outfits. As the demand for matching bangles surges during Ramadan, vendors and shopkeepers stock up on an array of designs, colours and materials to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, said a shopkeeper in Islamabad.
"Women come from all over to find the perfect matching bangles and we take great pride in helping them make their Eid celebrations even more special," said a vendor. The prices of matching bangles vary greatly, depending on the material, design, and quality.
Traditional glass bangles are relatively affordable, starting from as low as Rs500 to Rs1000 while high-end metal and crystal designs can cost upwards of Rs5,000. Despite the varying prices, women are willing to splurge on the perfect matching bangles.
"For me, Eid is not just about celebrating the end of Ramazan, but also about looking and feeling my best," said a young woman shopping for matching bangles. "I am willing to spend a little extra to find the perfect bangles that will complete my Eid outfit."
As Ramazan draws to a close, the demand for matching bangles is expected to peak.