Traders look forward for brisk business

By Ananda Kannangara

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Shop owners and payment hawkers in Colombo and the suburbs said they were expecting brisk business during the next few days due to the peaceful atmosphere in the city.

Several shop owners said that almost all shops and temporary business stalls in Pettah, Borella, Kollupitiya, Town Hall, Rajagiriya, Dehiwela and Maradana will be kept open till late at night for the public to do their last minute shopping.

Gamini Saparamadu, a vendor of musical instruments in Malwatta Road said the peaceful environment in the city will assist them to keep their shops open until 10.00 pm.

L. H. Sumanapala, a shop owner in Borella said that bulk orders for garments and toys were received by him from the Eastern province after several years.

Sudeer Ramalingam, a shop owner in Wellawatte said that when there are no bomb explosions, many traders keep their shops open till late night.

A manager of a popular textile shop in Bambalapitiya said their daily turnover exceeds Rs. 6 million.

Businessmen in Dehiwala, Wattala, Mt. Lavinia and Moratuwa said their daily turnover during this new year period improved tremendously compared to the past several years.

People said that the tight security and peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the country helped them to do their shopping without any hindrance.

Traders at the Colombo Manning market and St. John's fish market also said that brisk business is expected during the next few days.

They said the peaceful atmosphere will help customers to shop in Colombo and receive upcountry vegetable supplies.

Managers of several cinema halls outside the city said steps will be taken to screen more shows during the festive season.

Meanwhile, a senior Transport Ministry official said that 220 additional buses will be deployed from Colombo to the outstations during the festive season.