Sweltering heat makes malls a hit with residents

Humidity and the sultry weather, which returned to the city on Saturday, made residents flock to malls. The centralised air-conditioned malls are a boon for the residents of the city, especially when outages are regular.

Humidity and the sultry weather, which returned to the city on Saturday, made residents flock to malls. The centralised air-conditioned malls are a boon for the residents of the city, especially when outages are regular.

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The Millennium City is a hub of malls. And in this hot weather, many people are heading towards malls to save themselves from the scorching heat.

JK Gupta, regional head, Sahara Mall, said, “There is 20% increase in footfalls this season. The weather accompanied by summer vacation in schools and colleges is the main reason behind it.” He added, “Around 15,000-16,000 people drop in every day. Sometimes, we try to offer the best deals to shoppers.”

Avikal Joshi, assistant general manager (marketing) at Metropolitan Mall, shared similar views. He said, “During summers, the number of visitors increases by 10-15% and 20-25% on weekdays and weekends, respectively.”

The spokesperson and team leader of electronic section at Big Bazaar said, “Usually, we get around 2,000 customers a day, but in summers, more than 3,000 people drop in every day.”

Bhavna Khanna, a housewife, said, “Generally, I buy grocery from a local grocery store at Sadar Bazaar. But in summers, it is not possible to stand in the heat and buy stuff. Thanks to the malls, which have made my life easier.” Jayant Bhargava, a visitor at Ambience Mall, said, “Who can think of going to Sarojini Nagar market in South Delhi or the India Gate with family in this weather? I don't come to make purchases every time I come to a mall. Malls are places to chill out during summers. I come here to find out the latest fashion trend.”