The affordability and variety make these open-air markets indispensable for those looking to stay warm without burning a hole in their pockets. Photo: Messenger
As the cold wave tightens its grip across the country, the pressure on middle- and low-income individuals escalates at the makeshift open-air clothing markets lining the footpaths of Manikganj. These markets, dealing in second-hand winter clothes, see transactions amounting to crores of money, providing a lifeline for those on a tight budget.
Operated under the open sky, these temporary markets offer a range of clothing options, with prices ranging from Tk 20 to Tk 1000. The popularity of this old clothes haat stems from its affordability, catering to people of all age groups, particularly the middle and lower-income demographics.
Manikganj's traditional markets, held weekly on different days, become a hub for both new and old winter clothing as the season kicks in. The demand surges in the old clothes shops, drawing buyers predominantly from the middle and lower-income brackets. These open-air markets become the go-to source for many, serving as their only hope for braving the winter without breaking the bank.
The pricing spectrum in these markets reflects the economic diversity of its clientele, offering clothes starting from Tk 20 to Tk 1000. Beyond just second-hand items, the market also features affordable new clothing. However, the bulk of the crowd gravitates towards the old warm clothes shops during the winter months.
Singair Pilot High School hosts these markets on Thursdays and Sundays, traditionally known for trading cows, goats, and crops. However, the recent surge in popularity of low-cost new and used clothing stores indicates a shift in consumer preferences.
Maqsuda Begum, a female shopper, attested to the affordability of children's clothes in this market, stating that purchasing similar items elsewhere would cost three times more. Khalilur Rahman, an old clothes shopkeeper, revealed that around 200 to 250 traders in each haat collectively engage in transactions worth about Tk 30 lakh. The low prices attract a large crowd of low and middle-income buyers.
Haji Shahidul Islam, the President of Singair Bazaar Traders Association, emphasized the long-standing benefits this market provides to low-income individuals. Panchashord Ayesha and Mujibur Rahman, representing different villages, expressed their satisfaction with the quality and prices of winter clothes, attesting to the financial relief these markets offer.
The Singair haat, open on Thursdays and Sundays, accommodates 200 to 250 shopkeepers like Riazul, who has been in the cloth business for four years. The market boasts a diverse range of winter clothing, including sweaters, jackets, tracksuits, socks, hats, children's clothes, sheets, and blankets. Each shopkeeper specializes in different products, and the market witnesses transactions totaling Tk 10 to Tk 15 lakh for hot clothes.
Farid Hossain, a seller, highlighted the trust that the market instills, especially among low-income individuals who cannot afford new clothes. As winter advances, the variety of designs and sellers in the district's market is expected to grow, meeting the demands of a diverse customer base. The affordability and variety make these open-air markets indispensable for those looking to stay warm without burning a hole in their pockets.
Messenger/Fameema
