SRINAGAR: On the eve of Eid-ul-Adha, the usual hustle and bustle in the markets is missing, on Wednesday with traders complaining about the depressed sales.

Srinagar markets, including Lal Chowk, the commercial hub, which usually remained abuzz on such occasions, saw fewer business activities.

Some of the shopkeepers alleged that the route change of transport vehicles was one of the reasons for less business activity in the city centre of Lal Chowk.

Even some allege that due to the ongoing Srinagar Smart City Project in the capital city, shoppers are facing difficulties parking their vehicles at certain places.

Shoppers in smaller numbers were seen thronging shopping centres to shop for their favourite products, including bakery products, mutton, chicken, garments, and other items for the festival.

Locals were seen buying sacrificial animals at several roadside junctions. Mutton dealers claimed that the demand for sacrificial animals this Eid was low compared to the previous year, citing economic distress among the people.

"This time, the demand for sacrificial animals is very low. The sacrificial animal is being sold at Rs 380 per kg at many places, quite a bit less than last year," said a mutton dealer.

The three-day Eid festivity begins with congregational prayers in the morning. After Eid prayers, people sacrifice cattle to mark Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son before Allah. Later, sacrificial meat is distributed among the kith and kin, besides the needy.

Kids were seen in queues waiting to decorate their hands with "Hina" at Gonikan market in Srinagar. Besides, many children were seen purchasing artificial bangles, toys, and gift items from the roadside stall for the occasion. (UNI)