POKHARA, Nov 11: Two central business points in Pokhara, Mahendrapul and Chipledhunga, would be overcrowded around this time every year. From Dashin till Tihar, two main festivals of Hindus, many would spend busy hours in these markets.
This year, however the scene is different. Thanks to the economic blockade imposed by India on Nepal and the subsequent shortage of fuel and goods in the market, few people are seen in even popular supermarkets, smaller shops and around street venders. The adverse impact on trade is apparent, lament local businesspersons.
"There is acute shortage of edible oil, several food items and even things like shampoo. Even if costumers demand it, we can't provide them," said Moti Bhujel, owner of Munal Goods Store. "The blockade made this Tihar so lifeless."Bhujel added that people would show interest in buying new clothes for kids and themselves. Some would do shopping for interior decoration and similarly, kitchen utensils would also be in great demand during festivals. However, this has not happened this time during both Dashain and Tihar, he noted. "The blockade spoiled everything."
He added that consumers' focus has rather been drawn towards fresh sweets. And according to him, the reason is the lack of fuel. "As they could not prepare sweets at home due to the lack of LPG, they are looking for readymade sweets. But the business of sweets alone is not giving the feel of Tihar, you see."
The short supply of fuel has not spared the sweet makers either. According to Dev Chhetri, Vice President of Pokhara branch of FNCCI, who also runs 'Aagan Mitthai Pasal' in Newroad, Pokhara, all the sweets in his shop were made in firewood and that's not going to work longer. "We can't work in this way. Few types of sweets have been made as it is not possible to make varieties in firewood," he said.
Laxmi Poudel, a consumer stated that Tihar is going to be colorless this time. "There is no fuel, no edible oil, not even enough supply of even salt and sugar. In such condition, how can we celebrate Tihar?"
On Tuesday, people celebrated 'Kukur Tihar' across the country. The festival will go on for a week more.