Eid Shopping Rush Brings Rawalpindi Markets to Life

 Madiha Hafeez

Rawalpindi: With Eidul Fitr approaching, major shopping districts in Rawalpindi are witnessing a surge in shoppers, transforming commercial centres into bustling hubs as families make last-minute purchases despite persistent inflation.

Markets across Saddar, Commercial Market, Shamsabad, Moti Bazaar, Raja Bazaar, Purana Qila, Kartarpura and Benazir Bhutto Road have remained crowded late into the night, with traffic congestion becoming a daily feature as visitors from both Rawalpindi and Islamabad flock to buy clothes, shoes, accessories and gifts for the festive occasion.

The shopping activity intensifies after Iftar and continues until Sehri, with women and children making up the majority of customers visiting malls, plazas and traditional markets.

Decorative lights and festive displays across shopping centres have added to the Eid atmosphere, while roadside vendors and temporary stalls have also benefited from the increased footfall.

Despite concerns over rising prices, traders say consumer turnout has remained strong. Arslan, a garment shop owner on Bank Road in Saddar, said the volume of shoppers this year is comparable to the pre-pandemic period, indicating that families continue to prioritise Eid shopping even under financial pressure.

Children’s clothing and accessories remain among the most sought-after items, reflecting the tradition of ensuring young family members receive new outfits for Eid celebrations regardless of household income.

To manage the large crowds, the Rawalpindi district administration, in coordination with the traffic police and other departments, has established special complaint centres in major shopping areas to address incidents of theft and pickpocketing during the busy shopping season.

Sharjeel Mir, president of the Traders Association, said Eid shopping remains one of the busiest retail periods of the year, with Ramadan traditionally driving increased consumer spending. He added that improved law and order has further encouraged families to visit markets and shop late into the night.

With only days remaining before Eid, commercial activity is expected to intensify further as shoppers continue preparations for one of the country’s biggest religious festivals.