Besides pilgrims who visit Srisailam to celebrate Maha Sivaratri, thousands of shopkeepers climb the hill around the time. However, the strenuous trek has not been reaping benefits for many as footfalls have been on the wane.
The shopkeepers, who either hire vehicles or take services of Chenchu tribals living in the area, sell a range of products from eatables to brass articles and ornaments. “We have not been able to sell our products this time. As a result, we are forced to reduce prices and profits have come down,” says S.K. Meera, who sells brass ornaments and hails from Macherla, Guntur.
Shopkeepers make a trip to Srisailam twice a year - around Maha Sivaratri and during Ugadi., says Mr. Meena, who has been coming to the temple town for a decade. However, those selling drinking water and aerated drinks have seen profits increase overtime.
“Owing to lack of rain and early onset of summer, pilgrims who trek up the hill need water or a cool drink upon reaching here,” says a shopkeeper.
However, pilgrims complain many shopkeepers are making a quick buck by selling products at a price more than the maximum retail price (MRP). “They have been selling water at a price more than the MRP. Some are even charging double the MRP,” says a pilgrim.