Shreen Hamdani
An overview of streets in the valley catches one’s sight to different shopping complexes in virtual edifices. Kashmir is witnessing an upsurge in the number of shopping complexes popping out with some intricacy among customers. The western concept of ‘Stop and Shop’ has already occupied the minds of Kashmiri people. The concept of commercialization is growing with each day and many people seems boosting the concept by developing more shopping complexes everywhere.
However, earlier the destination of market area or commercial hubs were Maharaj Gunj, Gaedi Koche,Hari Singh High Street, Bohri Kadal and so on. Those market areas were without interference with people living in residential areas. The new trend of establishing shopping complexes and general stores to get all stuff at one place is good but people are going crazy after shopping complexes.
There has been a new trend even in business establishment in Kashmir. No doubt, the upcoming Shopping complexes have given a new shape to the city outlook. “It is really surprising to see the way small shopping places have turned up into huge complexes, regardless of the fact from where the money has come. Whatever it is, I would certainly state that this new trend has also played an important role in the beautification of the Srinagar city. Just you have an example of Karan Nagar area. I remember it used to be a silent place, but now many shopping complexes have come up in the area and it has totally changed the face of Karan Nagar,” said Hamad Khan, an architect student.
These establishments have given un-dubiously an eye catching view to the tourists also. Many tourists even find the concept of commercialization in the valley commendable. “I was mesmerized by watching these beautiful shopping complexes all around. This is my fourth visit to Kashmir and I have witnessed tremendous change here in aspect of business establishments,” said Hemant, 65 years old, a visitor from Hyderabad.
Well there are many people also who does not support the establishment of these complexes. They believe it is becoming commotion in the society because middle class can’t afford the fixed prices of these market hubs.
“Installing an escalator in the building can’t give it a look of malls existing in metropolitan states. It would have been appreciable if our shopping complexes would have offered any feasible rates like the rates goes in big bazaar outside the state. Purchasing and introducing a new franchisee in the valley is alright but at the same time products should be available at the same rate as company has fixed it,” said a local.
Shopping complexes intensifying in the valley
