The long stretch of Mahatma Gandhi Road was bustling with activity on Sunday as shoppers from several parts of city and adjoining areas rushed to shop for Deepavali .
Sales began on a tardy note but improved later. Vehicular traffic was not allowed on the road. With over 2,000 shops offering a wide range of products, the market has become a popular place attracting a large number of buyers every week. According to shopkeepers, the market has been functioning here for more than 30 years as a one-stop place for all kinds of wares at affordable rates. Hairpins, garments, kid’s wear, broaches, handbags or electronic gadgets, you name it, the hawkers have it.
People from Cuddalore, Tindivanam, Villupuram, Kallakurichi and Marakanam also schedule their Sunday shopping here.
However, the merchants are sceptical about the business and complain that they did not receive adequate customers this festival season.
S. Rahamathulla, who sells dress materials, said, “As rains failed last year, there was a poor harvest. This affected the spending power of people in the rural areas who are our main customers.”
P.S.Ganakasabai, president of the Sunday market, said, “People such as construction workers have not received salary for last two months and employees of State-run Corporations are yet to get bonus. So there customers turnout is less than our expectation.”
