TEAM HERALD

teamherald@herald-goa.com

MARGAO: The count down has finally begun. With just few days left for the Christmas, Margao’s bustling New Market – located in the minority heartland -- is bracing up for the annual rush of customers from Salcete’s country side. 

Fresh stocks of consumer goods – right from decorations to garments, groceries and textiles has flooded the market. 

The vendors are hoping for a good business this season despite the mining crisis facing the state.

Christmas decorations have made their presence felt inside New Market’s lanes and by-lanes. 

Traders says the latest variety of decorations have hit the market from China and countries from the Far East. In fact, just a few days from now, all roads from Salcete will lead to this market for the annual Christmas shopping. 

President of New Market traders association Vinod Shirodkar said the traders are eagerly waiting for the Christmas season. 

“This is the time when the traders stock the market with goods in demand for the Christmas. We are also aware that inflation has hit the economy, but we are confident that rising prices will not damper the Christmas mood”, Shirodkar added.

President of the rival New Market Vepari Sanghatna Devi Borkar said the traders have already procured goods right from decorations to jaggery, garments to textiles. 

“You name any Christmas item and the New Market has them all”, Borkar added.

The New Market’s textile lane – popularly known as “Ropa Chall” – is witnessing a hustle and bustle, with Christmas shoppers making a beeline for textile purchase right on time.