Balat, December 22, 2025: The Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar, one of the largest bazaars in the border belt, was held today, attracting a huge festive crowd from the border areas of East Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills. As the final Monday weekly bazaar before Christmas Eve on December 24, the Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar saw continuous crowds from morning till evening, causing traffic congestion and parking challenges.
Balat Bazaar, located near the India–Bangladesh international frontier, functions as a regular market on most days, but every Monday it becomes a major weekly trading centre. The Monday before Christmas is traditionally one of the busiest market days, and the Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar highlighted the festive spirit of the season and its importance for border communities.
Traffic at the Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar
Roads leading to the bazaar were congested from early morning as vehicles moved slowly amid the heavy crowd. The lack of proper parking facilities added to the challenges, with cars and two-wheelers parked along roadside stretches and nearby open areas. Local residents said such congestion is common during festive seasons like Christmas.
Border Haat Closure Continues to Affect Business
Despite the large turnout, traders said business remained below expectations. Shop owners attributed this to the prolonged non-functioning of the Border Haat, which had earlier supported livelihoods through regulated cross-border trade. Residents from East Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills who previously depended on the Border Haat are now largely reliant on markets like Balat Bazaar. While sales at the Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar were generally satisfactory, they were not comparable to earlier years. For official updates on border trade and regional markets or Border Haat, readers can visit this Commerce and Industries Department
Buyers Share Festive Priorities Amid Economic Strain
Shoppers also expressed concerns about rising expenses. Speaking on condition of anonymity, one buyer said:
“Even though there is an economic crisis, this festive season comes only once in a year. We have to buy clothes for our children.”
In addition to clothing, families purchased essential food items and household commodities. With Christmas being a season of visiting relatives and neighbours, households prepare food and refreshments to welcome guests. During the Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar, demand remained steady for meat, fish, vegetables, spices, and other daily essentials.
Bazaar Remains Central to Border Community Life
Temporary stalls selling clothes, food items, and small festive goods added to the seasonal atmosphere. Meat and fish sections remained busy, though traders described overall sales as moderate. Despite traffic, parking issues, and economic pressures, Balat Bazaar continues to serve as a vital social and economic hub. The Last Bazaar of Christmas at Balat Bazaar showcased the resilience of border communities preparing to celebrate Christmas amid ongoing challenges.
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