Rajshahi Correspondent:

The blanket market in Rajshahi is already warming up, with the winter getting very close.

Retailers report brisk sales and notably fair prices compared to last year, as early-season demand meets increased wholesale costs.

From New Market to Ranibazar, the makeshift roadside stalls are selling a wide range of blankets – from locally-made light ones priced between Tk250 and Tk 1,300 apiece to imported heavy blankets available at prices ranging from Tk 3,000 to Tk 6,500 apiece.

Retailers say wholesale prices have risen, forcing them to charge more, while consumers accuse traders of unjustified mark-ups ahead of the season.

Last year, the same quality blankets sold for Tk 2,000-5,000, meaning a price jump of Tk1,000-1,500 per piece on average.

Sanjida Begum, a housewife from the C&B area, said, “The blanket I bought for Tk350 last year now costs Tk 500. Sellers blame the wholesale market, but it feels like prices are being raised unnecessarily before winter even begins.”

Another customer, Muni Khatun, echoed the sentiment, saying, “I expected lower prices at this time, but everything has gone up.”

Retailers, however, attribute the price hike to higher production and transport costs. “All types of blankets have become costlier,” said Mithun Sarkar, a Ranibazar trader. “We’re seeing early buyers who want to avoid further price hike once cold intensifies.”

Local weather officials confirm that the region is only beginning to experience mild cool breezes at night. “Winter is still light in Rajshahi; noticeable temperature drops may begin in early November,” said Anwara Khatun, assistant observer at the Rajshahi Meteorological Office.