Shimla, Oct. 18 -- The Dhanteras celebrations in Himachal Pradesh's capital, Shimla, remained subdued this year, with local markets witnessing a tepid footfall and traders reporting weak sales, despite recent GST reforms offering some relief.

Traders attributed the slowdown in festive business to multiple factors, including the aftermath of the state's recent natural disasters, inflationary pressures, and the growing preference for online shopping. Local restrictions on vehicular movement in key market areas also added to the decline in customer turnout.

Speaking to ANI at Shimla's Lower Bazaar, local trader Vijay Kumar expressed disappointment over the lacklustre sales.

"Compared to last year, we have fewer customers. Prices have incr...