Sales Plummet by ‘Almost 50%’ as Heatwave Grips Siliguri

Sanchita Aich Bag | MP  | 14 July 2025 | 12:21 AM  Siliguri:  With temperatures soaring, residents of Siliguri are avoiding going out in the sun, leading to a sharp decline in foot traffic across commercial zones. As a result, local businesses—particularly in major markets like Bidhan Market, Hill Cart Road, SF Road, Seth Srilal Market, and Hongkong Market—are experiencing a massive slump, with sales reportedly plummeting by almost 50%. The once-bustling markets now wear a deserted look. Traders, who open their shops daily in the hope of making sales, are forced to return home empty-handed, battling not just the sun but a growing sense of despair.

Traders Speak Out

Bapi Saha, Secretary of the Bidhan Market Traders’ Association, shared his concerns: “This market is usually so crowded that there’s barely space to walk. But now, these markets are almost empty. Business is down by nearly 50%, and traders are suffering heavy financial losses. Many are returning home in disappointment every day. We don’t know how long this situation will continue.”

On Hill Cart Road, a vital commercial stretch, the scenario is equally grim. Sanat Bhowmik, Secretary of the Hill Cart Road Traders’ Association, commented: “Customers are avoiding shops altogether because of the oppressive heat. The markets are in shambles. Sales are down by half. The Durga Puja festival is near, and we are unsure about our business this year.”

The Impact of Scorching Temperatures

Sajal Bhattacharya, a shop owner, echoed similar concerns: “Our business has been highly affected by the scorching heat. This year, Durga Puja will be early, and if this situation remains the same, we will be at a high loss.”

The relentless heat has made it difficult for shopkeepers to even stay inside their establishments for long hours. On Sunday, the temperature in Siliguri reached 35.9°C, with a low of 27.4°C. In contrast, the temperature in Darjeeling hills was much cooler at 23°C. Other districts of North Bengal are also experiencing heatwaves, with temperatures ranging between 37°C and 34°C.

Hope for Relief

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), light to moderate rainfall is expected from July 14 to 16 in some areas of North Bengal, including Siliguri and Darjeeling. This may bring some much-needed relief to the region, easing the heatwave and hopefully giving traders a chance to recover from the downturn.

Courtesy & source: Millennium Post