Rising costs squeeze traders at Srinagar’s weekly markets
Small sellers struggle to balance affordability and survival
Srinagar, Feb 8, KNT: Traders at Srinagar’s weekly markets are facing mounting pressure as rising transport and procurement costs eat into already thin profit margins, forcing vendors to adopt new coping strategies to sustain their businesses.
Vendors said increased fuel prices and higher transportation charges have significantly raised the cost of bringing goods from wholesale markets outside the city, including from Jammu, Delhi, and other supply hubs. Many traders rely on shared transport or private vehicles to move goods, and any rise in fuel or freight rates directly impacts their operating costs.
Several traders said procurement prices of garments, footwear, and household items have risen steadily over the past few months, leaving little room to absorb losses. As a result, vendors are cautiously revising prices, though many admit they are unable to pass on the full burden to customers due to intense competition and price sensitivity among locals.
“To survive, we have reduced our margins,” said a clothing vendor at the Sunday market, adding that maintaining customer trust is essential in a space where buyers compare prices stall to stall.
Some traders said they have shifted to sourcing cheaper alternatives or reducing variety to manage costs. Bulk purchasing, sharing transport expenses with other vendors, and limiting unsold stock were cited as common measures adopted to minimise financial risk.
Despite high footfall at weekly markets, traders said sales volumes have become unpredictable. Locals are spending more time bargaining and prioritising essential purchases, leading to slower turnover for non-essential goods.
Vendors dealing in daily-use items said demand remains relatively stable, but profits have narrowed due to rising input costs. Traders also expressed concern that any further increase in transport expenses could force small vendors out of business.
Market observers said weekly markets continue to attract buyers due to comparatively lower prices than retail shops, but sustained inflation is testing the resilience of small traders who depend on these markets for daily livelihood.
Traders said they remain hopeful that stable fuel prices and improved local supply chains could ease pressures in the coming months, but warned that prolonged cost escalation may have long-term consequences for the informal market economy in Srinagar. [KNT]
