While the capital is gradually reviving after a week-long lockdown, shopping malls are struggling to draw patrons.
Malls are usually busiest in the afternoons and nights, according to store owners. But now the curfew makes people reluctant to go shopping.
They think that the low foot traffic will persist in the evening hours.
Kawsar Ahmed, manager of the Dhanmondi branch of Gentle Park — a fashion brand, told local media, “Mornings are not popular for shopping; people typically shop in the afternoon. With the limited time available before the curfew kicks in the afternoon, only a few customers visit the malls.”
Regarding decreased sales compared to usual, he said current sales levels are not comparable to those of normal periods in any way.
Mouchak Market, one of Dhaka’s oldest and busiest shopping centres, typically sees around 5,000 visitors daily. However, on Friday, shopkeepers were seen idle and chatting due to the lack of customers.
Bashundhara City Shopping Complex was reportedly closed at 5pm earlier. An Ansar member, stationed outside, said the market shuts when the curfew comes into effect.
Typically bustling with customers on Fridays, the capital’s New Market, Nurjahan Market, Globe Shopping Complex, and Chandrima Market were unusually quiet yesterday. Shopkeepers were seen with little to do.
