Sale of readymade garments, matching shoes surges in KP’s markets ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations

PESHAWAR, Mar 15 (APP): With Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, bustling markets across Peshawar have come alive with shoppers thronging stalls and shops in search of clothes with matching shoes for the festive occasion.

The sale of readymade garments, used clothing and footwear has increased significantly as people rush to complete their Eid shopping continued from morning to late night.

Major commercial hubs including Saddar Bazaar, University Road, Ganj, Kohati, Meena Bazzar,  Qissa  Khwani and inner-city markets witnessed an extraordinary influx of buyers over the weekend.

 Shopkeepers said business and trade activity has picked up sharply as families prepare for the upcoming festival.

For many shoppers, readymade garments offer a practical solution amid rising tailoring costs and limited time before Eid.

“I came from Karak to purchase five readymade suits for myself and my younger brothers and nephew as Eid gifts,” said Waris Khattak, an emoloyee in a public sector department, while shopping in Saddar Bazaar.

He said readymade garments were both cost-efficient and time-saving, especially during the busy Eid season when tailoring charges tend to rise significantly.

However, the festive shopping rush also reflects the economic challenges faced by low-income families in the aftermath of the rising petroleum products.

As a result, used-clothing markets in areas such as Firdous Railway Pattak and Faqirabad witnessed customers seeking affordable options.

“I came from Wapda Town to buy used clothes for myself for Eid as prices of new cloths are sky high,” said Bilal Khan, a fruit seller visiting the Firdous cloth market.

He explained that a used men’s suit was available for around Rs1,000 while children’s clothes could be purchased for about Rs400. In comparison, new garments often cost between Rs5,000 and Rs10,000 prices beyond the reach of many labourers and underprivileged.

The demand for used shoes has also increased as families try to manage expenses ahead of festive season.

Shoe markets across Peshawar remained crowded with buyers bargaining with shopkeepers, a common scene in the city’s bustling bazaars.

Children’s used shoes were available between Rs400 and Rs600, while new branded shoes ranged from Rs2000 to Rs3,000.

Meanwhile, many members of the middle-income and salaried class are opting for the traditional Peshawari Chappal, known for its durability, comfort and comparatively affordable price.

The Jahangirpura Bazaar, located near the historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar, remained a focal point for Eid shoppers seeking handcrafted footwear. Customers from nearby districts including Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat, and Swabi, as well as tribal districts such as Khyber District, Mohmand District and Bajaur District, were seen browsing the vibrant shoe market.

“Peshawari chappal is my favourite footwear because of its eye-catching design and durability. My Eid feels incomplete without it,” said Naveed Khan, a lecturer at Qissa Khwani bazaar.

He said he purchased three pairs of handmade Peshawari chappals this year—one for himself, one for his brother and one for an orphan cousin—at Rs5,000 each, compared to Rs4,500 last year.

Despite the festive excitement, he emphasized the importance of remembering those struggling financially.

“Buying clothes or shoes for poor families and jobless workers can truly double the joy of the festival.”

The shoppers have urged KP Govt to take action against price hikers and tailors involved in overcharging and provide relief .to them