Patuakhali shoemakers become busy ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr

The shoemakers in Patuakhali now remain busy as their activities have increased ahead of the Holy Eid-ul-Fitr.

"The workload in their workshops has increased several times compared to other times of the year as leather cutting, sewing, sole application and finishing work are going on a full swing from the morning till late at night," Nayan Rishi, 30, told BSS recently.

Nishi works at a small factory in Hachan Dalal Market under Baufal Municipality of the district. Son of Nagen Rishi, he has also been involved in the same profession for a long time, keeping up with the family tradition.
 
Nayan Rishi has been making and selling leather shoes on his own initiative for several years. His factory makes and sells an average of 200 to 250 pairs of shoes per month.

"However, when the Eid season comes, this number increases to 400 to 500 pairs. Especially in the two weeks before Eid, the workload is the highest," Nayan said.

He said, "I mainly make leather slippers. I also make various types of items, including half-shoes, nagra, gents' slippers and loafers... I buy seasoned leather from Bangshal in Dhaka and make shoes here. This has a good demand for our shoes in the local market."

Asked about its price, he said the price of the leather slippers of different quality and design usually sells from Taka 400 to Taka 700.

"On average, five to six pairs of shoes are sold every day. However, we are expecting to sell 100 to 200 pairs every day before Eid. The pressure from buyers has already started increasing," he mentioned.

While visiting the Hachon Dalal Market, this correspondent saw the same picture in other shoe shops and factories, as some are cutting leather, some are sewing, and some are polishing and packaging the finished shoes there.

He said many have also hired additional workers for the busy Eid occasion.

Talking to the BSS, local buyers Karim, Rahim and Jasim said they feel comfortable buying shoes from local craftsmen as hand-made leather shoes are durable and comfortable, and relatively affordable.
Some craftsmen said this industry will flourish if buyers' interest in local products increases.

Besides, with government sponsorship and easy credit facilities, small entrepreneurs will be able to increase production, and more employment opportunities will be created.