Photo: BSS

By Mofazzel Hossain

BARISAL, Nov 17, 2025 (BSS) – As cold weather has gripped the Barishal regions, 
the winter clothes market is seeing a surge in demand as shoppers flock to sidewalk stalls to buy warm clothing. 

The cold weather, although delayed this year in the metropolis, is now sweeping across the streets, fields, and villages, ushering in a brisk shopping season for winter essentials.

As fog settles over the city and dew drops glisten on grass and water, the city streets are abuzz with activity. Residents, particularly from low and middle-income groups, have been crowding sidewalk markets in search of affordable winter wear. 

From woolen jackets to blankets, mufflers, and scarves, these markets are offering a wide range of items to protect against the dipping temperatures.

The DC Market, known for its variety of affordable winter clothing, has been a hotspot for buyers looking for budget-friendly options. Traders, sourcing second-hand clothes from Chittagong, are selling garments of good quality at relatively low prices. This has attracted not only the middle class but also wealthier residents seeking to stretch their budgets.

Despite this, some buyers have noted a slight increase in prices compared to last year.

Maryam, a resident of Chowmatha area, shared her shopping strategy: “It costs a lot of money to buy something new in the market, so I buy from a roadside van. The prices are lower, and I can carefully choose what I need.”

Abdul Manik, a vegetable seller in the city, was seen picking out clothes for his young son at one of these sidewalk shops. "I'm getting winter clothes in advance, before the cold weather becomes more intense," Manik said, explaining his decision to buy early.

The shops lining Sadar Road, Launch Ghat, Notun Bazar, Rupatali, and other busy areas of Barishal have become hubs for these seasonal sales. 

Over 200 vendors have set up stalls, offering winter wear at prices ranging from Taka 20 to 1,000, depending on the item. Items available include everything from woolen sweaters to full-length jackets, as well as blankets and mufflers.

Shamim, a winter clothes seller, mentioned, "I bring clothes from Chattogram and sell them here. The price ranges from Taka 60 to 1,000, and the quality is quite good. As the cold intensifies, we expect our sales to increase even further."

Barishal's winter clothes market shows no signs of slowing down as the season progresses. Many vendors are anticipating higher sales as temperatures drop further, and shoppers continue to seek out affordable solutions to stay warm. For now, the city's sidewalk markets remain a bustling, essential stop for winter shopping.