The 17th Punjab International Trade Expo witnessed an unprecedented footfall of over 2.8 lakh visitors this year, the highest since its inception, forcing organizers to shut gates Sunday given the swelling crowds.
Officials estimate the numbers to cross 3 lakh on the final day Monday as attendees continue thronging the event venue at Ranjit Avenue. Long queues lined outside several pavilions with people waiting patiently to enter.
The recent edition surpassed last year’s then-record of 2.6 lakh people attending the expo according to organizers. In 2019, pre-pandemic footfalls stood at 2 lakh for the annual fair aimed at promoting local business.
Trade body PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the key organizers, said the exponential rise in popularity is testimony to the expo’s success in bringing together enterprises and the public each year.
With Sunday alone clocking 1.2 lakh visitors, attendees packed the venue as additional police personnel were deployed to manage participant flow and traffic congestion around the site.
Families enjoyed cultural programs while sampling regional and international cuisines from various food stalls, especially the popular Rajasthani plates.
Participants came from states like Tarn Taran to experience the extravaganza of handicrafts, artisan products, home decor, and garments alongside music concerts, and a reliance-themed wedding pavilion.
Some welcomed the marked increase in participating stalls compared to prior editions. The growing buzz has industry bodies requesting authorities enhance infrastructure and extend future exhibition durations given the tremendous response.
As the curtains come down on a vibrant showcase blending culture with commerce, the roaring success promises to keep spirits high while planning ever-grander events in Amritsar.
