Srinagar, Feb 13: Street vendors outside the revered shrine of Hazratbal in Srinagar are facing severe financial losses after a viral video showed a dead rodent in an open oil tin at a local stall recently.
The incident had sparked widespread concern among customers, leading to a sharp decline in business and affecting the livelihoods of hawkers and snack sellers near the Hazratbal shrine.
Many vendors expressed frustration over the general mistrust that has spread following the incident, stressing that one individual’s negligence should not tarnish the reputation of all street traders.
Kafeel Ahmad, a snack vendor, acknowledged the challenges but maintained that his commitment to cleanliness continues to attract loyal customers. “My business has been affected to some extent, but those who know me still trust me because I have always prioritised hygiene. As a Muslim, cleanliness is a fundamental value, and I encourage other vendors to uphold the same standards to regain customer confidence,” he said.
Mohammad Rafiq, a veteran hawker of 45 years, described the situation as unprecedented and lamented that one vendor’s mistake has cast doubt over the entire community. “It is not just street vendors who are suffering—everyone in the area is feeling the impact. Customers now hesitate to buy from any of us, which is severely affecting our livelihoods. I have always maintained hygiene and will now be even more cautious,” he added.
Local residents have also voiced their concerns, with Rouf Ahmad, a long-time visitor to the market, expressing sympathy for the affected vendors.
“I have seen these vendors selling snacks since my childhood, and I have never come across such an incident before. It is unfortunate that all of them are now facing financial hardship. If one vendor was at fault, it does not mean everyone should suffer,” he said.
