Business blues: Following blast, main markets remain shut

Traders demand govt for compensation packages.

Hidayat Khan March 11, 2013

This was the second attack in the area in three years. Earlier, over 300 people; most of them traders, were killed while 26 were critically injured. PHOTO: FILE

PESHAWAR: Thousands of traders suffered as most city markets remained shut for the second day after a blast in Peshawar. Business activities at other commercial areas were bare minimum. People preferred staying indoors, for fear of similar attacks.

Meena Bazaar, frequented by scores of women on regular basis, remained shut on Sunday. “Even if we open the shops, we would not have any customers for a month or so,” Meena Bazar Traders Association President Liaqat Bacha, said. He pointed out that regardless of the motive behind such attacks, shoppers are always apprehensive of visiting the market area, which directly affects business.

“Rising inflation and other factors have already taken a toll on our businesses and terrorist attacks just add fuel to fire,” Shaheen Bazar Traders Association President Shafqat Khan said.

Meanwhile, Jhanda Bazar also remained closed while as Water and Power Development Authority officials had failed to remove or repair damaged electricity wiring from the locality.

This was the second attack in the area in three years. Earlier, over 300 people; most of them traders, were killed while 26 were critically injured. Some of them ended up handicapped and unable to work. The traders have demanded that the government announce relief packages for the victims and their families.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 11^th, 2013.