Latest news with #MayankRohatgi

Time of India

Rain a worry, but festive cheer sparks retail hopes for brisk business in Bengaluru markets

Bengaluru: It's that time of year when markets bustle with festive-season shoppers and traders expect a boom. But persistent rain and traffic woes dampened footfall and consumer sentiment this Independence Day weekend with businesses witnessing a 30% drop from last year. However, traders are hopeful of a change as the festivities, beginning with Ganesh Chaturthi, are set to start. One of the city's most bustling hubs, Commercial Street, housing more than 250 shops, is facing such a challenge. Mayank Rohatgi, secretary of Bangalore Commercial Street Association, said: "This is usually peak shopping season with visitors from other states and NRIs on holiday. But this year, rain has kept crowds away. Prices have gone up by 20-30% compared to last year, and we've seen a 30% drop in footfall. Even though Commercial Street itself isn't flooded, citywide waterlogging keeps people from stepping out. Our business has been affected in a way we did not expect." Paras Mal Mali, treasurer of Ibrahim Saheb Traders' Association, said after two years of civic works, the street was finally geared up for profits, but rain has made it difficult for customers to shop. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Use an AI Writing Tool That Actually Understands Your Voice Grammarly Install Now Undo "This is disappointing. After two years of slow business and prolonged roadworks, we finally got everything set up, but now the rain is damaging it all. Street vendors are another problem here." You Can Also Check: Bengaluru AQI | Weather in Bengaluru | Bank Holidays in Bengaluru | Public Holidays in Bengaluru | Gold Rates Today in Bengaluru | Silver Rates Today in Bengaluru Ibrahim Saheb Street, located next to Commercial Street, has at least 500 shops. "When it pours, the entire City Market area floods with dirty water and no one wants to shop in that environment. With no autos coming and no apps taking rides, customers often have trouble commuting, which is one of the reasons many refrain from visiting. The govt must take measures to keep the city clean and maintain the streets; otherwise, traders will continue to suffer," said Rahul Goyal, of Karnataka Hardware and Allied Merchants' Association on SJP Road. Suhail Yusuf, secretary of Brigade Road Shops and Establishments' Association, said: "It's definitely the rain, and also the BBMP's decision to make parking free everywhere — vehicles are parked all day, leaving no space for customers to stop and shop. Brigade Road is a street where you get everything, with certain exclusives like the PlayStation I sell... Customers come because they know they'll get complete assurances even after purchase, which are fully implemented. Compared to last year, business is 20-25% slower." Trade activist Sajjan Raj Mehta said: "Despite the festive season and an expected boost, Bengaluru's yellow alert and persistent rains have dampened footfall and consumer sentiment. Textile and garment traders are hopeful of a turnaround once the weather clears. The next six months have several festivals and the marriage season, so we hope for the best." Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays , public holidays , and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.