Market slowdown in Rajkot as firecracker prices surge by 30 to 40 per cent

A slowdown in the sale of Diwali firecrackers is being observed this year at Sadar Bazar, the main shopping hub of Rajkot. Due to a significant increase of 30 to 40 per cent in firecracker prices, there has been a decrease in the crowd of customers in the markets, leaving traders worried.

According to a report by Sandesh, this massive jump in firecracker prices has occurred due to increases in raw material prices, production costs, and transportation costs. This inflation has had a direct impact on lower and middle-class families, causing their budgets to be disrupted and leading to a decline in purchases.

Customers in the market say that firecracker prices have increased significantly, thereby increasing their expenses. However, despite the inflation, the enthusiasm for Diwali among people has not diminished. Citizens believe that to maintain children's happiness and festival traditions, they will celebrate Diwali by making limited purchases. Traders hope that market demand will improve in the final days of the festival.

Rajkot is a city located in the center of the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. It is the fourth largest city in Gujarat after Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara. According to 2021 data, with a population of more than 20 lakh, this city is India's 35th largest metropolitan area. Rajkot is situated on the banks of the Aji and Nyari rivers. It was the capital of Saurashtra State from 15 April 1948 to 31 October 1956 and was merged into the state of Gujarat on 1 May 1960.