Firecracker Sales Yet to Spark in Vijayawada Ahead of Diwali
Firecracker sales in Vijayawada remain slow this Diwali season due to rising prices and restrictions on conventional crackers. Traders expect last-minute sales to improve.
Firecracker shops in Vijayawada wear a subdued look as higher prices and green cracker rules slow down Diwali sales.
With Diwali just around the corner, Vijayawada’s firecracker markets are seeing a slower-than-usual start to the festive season. Traders and customers say rising prices—up nearly 15% compared to last year—are dampening the festive spirit across the city.
High Prices Dim Festive Cheer
Despite large banners advertising discounts of up to 85%, many buyers claim the offers are misleading.
“Last year, I spent ₹3,000 on crackers. The same set now costs almost ₹3,600,” said K. Shankar Rao, a private employee. “We’re rethinking whether it’s worth spending so much on something that lasts just a few minutes.”
Traders Report 40% Drop in Sales
Firecracker stalls in Governorpet and along Eluru Road, traditionally the city’s busiest cracker hubs, are reporting a steep drop in sales.
“Pre-festival sales are usually brisk at this time, but this year we’ve seen nearly a 40% decline,” said N. Subrahmanyeshwara Rao, a wholesale firecracker dealer.
He added that government restrictions on conventional crackers and the mandatory shift to green crackers have contributed to the price surge. “Green crackers cost more to produce and are in limited supply,” Rao explained.
Vendors Offer Smaller Family Packs
To appeal to cost-conscious buyers, several small vendors have introduced budget-friendly ‘family packs’ with fewer crackers. Nearby popcorn and toy sellers also report steady business as families seek affordable festive options for children.
Hope for a Last-Minute Rush
Despite the current lull, traders remain optimistic that sales will gain momentum in the final days leading up to Diwali, when last-minute shoppers typically crowd the stalls.
