'Uthradapachil' grips city, markets flooded

Traffic at Overbridge, East Fort, Chalai, Pazhavangadi, MG Rd intermittently halted with shoppers dominating the streets

- SHAINU MOHAN @T'Puram

THE state capital on the eve of 'Thiruvonam' witnessed 'Uthradapachil' — an unprecedented rush with people thronging the streets for last minute purchases. Traffic at Overbridge, East Fort, Chalai, Pazhavangadi and MG Road intermittently halted with shoppers dominating the streets for buying vegetables to textiles to celebrate Onam.

Almost every street leading to Chalai, Palayam and MG Road — three popular shopping areas — were taken over by shoppers and pedestrians. Many feel that Onam festivities are almost back to normal compared to the previous years which were marred by the Wayanad landslide, pandemic and flood.