Blacksmiths cashing in ahead of Eid

Islamabad: Ahead of Eidul Azha, blacksmiths across the twin cities are reported to be doing brisk business. They sold new butchering tools and offered sharpening services for older equipment in markets and along roadsides.

Their stalls featured not just knives and cleavers but also large wooden blocks and sturdy chopping boards. Some itinerant sharpeners, lacking formal shops, offered lower rates as they roam the city on bicycles fitted with loudspeakers, announcing their services.

In Islamabad, popular blacksmith markets included Aabpara and G-9 Markaz, where the trade was particularly concentrated. Meanwhile, Rawalpindi boasted a dedicated blacksmith area Purana Qila near Raja Bazaar where skilled artisans forged iron and steel year-round, shaping both household and commercial items in blazing workshops.