New Delhi (PTI): E-shopping in this festive season is likely to go up by 180 per cent and touch Rs 15,000 crore, as security concerns in major cities like Delhi in the wake of terror attacks are likely to encourage online buying, says a study.

"Because of security reasons, e-shopping is going to grow by nearly 180 per cent to touch levels of over Rs 15,000 crore during Dusshera and Diwali in the metros and large towns like Lucknow and Chandigarh," industry body Assocham said in its study.

Other reasons for increase in the number of e-shoppers include home delivery and 24X7 shopping facility, it said, adding that maximum e-shopping take place in electronic gadgets, apparels, travel tickets and gift items.

"The percentage increase for e-shoppers in 2008-09 would touch at least 50 per cent in Mumbai and 60 per cent in Delhi. Products that will gain popularity in e-sales could include gems and jewellery, online books sale, apparel and gift products," head of Videocon Group of Industries Venugopal N Dhoot said.

The surge in e-shopping would hit earnings of footpath sellers, especially those who sell garments and household articles, Assocham said in its study conducted on traders during the past 10-days.