Due to a continuous rise in coronavirus cases, the festivals have witnessed low-key celebrations whereas the small scale businessman and vendors’ income has hit hard since the pandemic.
With Holi just few days away, stagnation in sales is the last thing that mall owners, vendors and operators want. Moreover, due to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)’s rule to contend with rapid antigen tests in shopping malls, marketplaces and other public places, the sales have impacted severely.
The BMC has banned the Holi celebrations on both March 28 and 29, this year in Mumbai. Hence, this time around, retailers are yet to gear up for the Holi weekend, admitting privately that they remain unsure of how the business will be in the wake of the new COVID-19 restrictions in the city. While the other vendors have been waiting in the hope for some customers during the festive period.
Though, Holi holds significance in tribal areas, it is doubtful whether the citizens stranded in the city due to the COVID-19 will be able to return to their villages. There are no Holi preparations even in the rural areas yet.
According to reports, while the recovery rate in terms of sales was around 85-90 per cent in February, the sales have been stagnating in the last few days. Experts suggest random testing could deter people from stepping out even further with many decide to postpone their purchases.
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