Florists increase rates as Eid nears

RAWALPINDI: There is a strong tradition in Rawalpindi of visiting the graves of near and dear ones soon after Eid prayers. Therefore like every year, as Eid draws near, prices of rose petals and grave maintenance services have seen a massive spike.

Many pushcart vendors and stallholders selling wreaths, rose petals, rose water and incense have started to occupy strategic spots outside the 45 small and large graveyards in the garrison city.

These seasonal salesmen sell rose petals at more than 200 per cent the regular rate. They have increased the rate of petals which are showered on graves to Rs450 per kilogramme (kg), sold otherwise for Rs150 on normal days.

The rates for a wreath or chador for graves made of artificial flowers range between Rs100 and Rs1,000, varying with quality.

Those made of fresh flowers are sold for almost Rs1,500.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 22^nd, 2020.