RAWALPINDI, Nov 7: Landa Bazaar along the footpaths of Bank Road and Haider Road in Rawalpindi cantonment is attracting a large number of customers. The bazaar offers sale on everything – curtains, quilts, blankets, rugs, trousers, undergarments, shirts, woolies, children wear and jackets.

Inflation and poverty are forcing the people to do the winter shopping at the bazaar of secondhand imported warm clothes. Salaried people say their purchasing power is lessening, adding that the clothes that they bought last year for winter from main shops were unaffordable this year.

But many bemoaned the increase in prices at the Landa Bazaar also. “The prices clothes are higher compared to last year,” said Mubashir Ali, a shopper. “The price spiral has forced people to buy secondhand imported garments,” said Faraz Ahmed, a university student.

The large number of people turning up at the market of used warm clothes this year has surprised Saqib Nisar, who is in the business for the last five years. “I have not seen such rush of customers.” He said the prices at the Landa Bazaar were going up because of inflation and taxes.

But Nighat Rehman was happy with her shopping at the Landa Bazaar, as she got 'stylish' and 'quality' woolen sweaters and jackets for her seven children at 'reasonable prices'. She and her husband work for a private company. “Landa Bazaar is a blessing for us.”

Electrician Mohammad Anjum has no option but to buy garments from Landa Bazaar for his five children. But for him, this year prices have sharply gone up at the bazaar. “The jacket I bought for Rs200 last year is now available for Rs400,” he said.

Ramzan Khan, who was shopping at Haider Road, also notices difference in prices as he looks back. “Last year, I got a good sweater for Rs80. Now they are asking Rs200.''