The arrival of winter in Patna has sent residents scrambling to markets, leading to a dramatic increase in the sale of heating appliances and warm clothing. Retailers across the city are reporting a robust surge in demand, with sales figures climbing significantly as the mercury dips.
Market Buzzes with 40-50% Sales Jump
Over the past week, traders have observed a 40–50% rise in sales of essential winter items including geysers, room heaters, and blankets. This spike comes after a sluggish start to the season, with sales now recovering to about 50% of last year's levels. A local trader noted that the cold mornings and evenings have been a key driver, stating, "The sale has improved in the last few days as it is quite cold." The optimism is palpable, with retailers hoping the cold spell continues to boost business further.
Price Spectrum and High-Demand Items
City markets, from Chandni Chowk to Tibetan Lhasa Market, are stocked with a wide array of products catering to all budgets. Room heaters are available from as low as Rs 500 for basic models to Rs 5,000 for advanced ones. Geysers, a must-have for many, range between Rs 3,200 for a 3-litre capacity and Rs 18,000 for a 25-litre unit. Electric blowers are priced from Rs 800 for non-branded variants to Rs 2,500 for branded ones.
Rajesh Khaitan, an electric shop owner in Chandni Chowk, highlighted the positive trend, estimating that heating appliances sales in Chandni Chowk alone could generate between Rs 20 and Rs 25 lakh this season. Another electronics dealer, R S Jeet Singh, confirmed the availability of gadgets from Rs 200 to Rs 18,000, including immersion rods and blowers.
Warm Clothing Sees Parallel Surge
The demand for winter wear has seen a parallel uptick. Retailers report a similar 40-50% increase in sales of jackets, sweaters, and blankets. The Tibetan Lhasa Market at the high court shrine complex is attracting crowds with its collection of sweaters, shawls, mufflers, and children's wear. Prices here are competitive, starting at just Rs 50 for socks and going up to Rs 4,000 for premium woollens.
Trader Tenzin Yarphel mentioned bringing in better quality and trendier designs this season, which has received an encouraging response. Shoppers, like a resident from Rajendra Nagar, are motivated by reasonable pricing and durability. The sentiment is echoed by city resident Ajit Kumar Jha, who recently purchased two blowers, citing the chilling cold as a necessity for comfort during morning and evening hours.
With traders well-prepared and sales momentum building, Patna's markets are witnessing a vibrant winter season, turning the cold weather into a hot opportunity for local commerce.
