Prayagraj: Diwali festivities were evident in the city markets as shoppers turned up in large numbers for purchasing traditional diyas, décor, garments, sweets and electronic goods on the eve of Dhanteras on Thursday.Shops remained open till late at night and roads leading to major markets witnessed heavy traffic rush. From Civil Lines and Katra to Chowk, Teliyarganj, Sulem Sarai, Muttiganj, Kydganj, Khuldabad, Batasa Mandi and Loknath, markets remained abuzz on Thursday. Roadside stalls and permanent shops selling decorative items, artificial flowers, showpieces, chandeliers, lamps, candles, earthen diyas, rangolis, jhalars and other lighting accessories remained equally busy.Several offices and schools witnessed thinner attendance with the festival approaching. “Although I am not getting much time because of office, my family members have started shopping for Diwali as the rush will only increase in the coming days,” said management professional Saket Srivastava.Electronic showrooms, too, witnessed a rise in sales, with consumer appliances and gadgets emerging as popular gifting options. Mobile phones, microwave ovens, LCD televisions, refrigerators, handy-cams and laptops are among the products drawing buyers.“There is an increase in sales as Diwali approaches. Electronic items are being purchased both for households and as gifts,” said Vivek, a salesman at a Civil Lines showroom.Temporary stalls selling artificial flowers, decorative lamps, glowing accessories, bulbs and colourful jhalars were also doing brisk business. “Artificial flowers remain in demand throughout the year, but their sales increase sharply during Diwali,” said Deepanshu, a shopkeeper in Chowk.Students, too, joined their families in preparations despite academic commitments. “We have our mid-semester examinations, but helping parents clean the house and shop for Diwali is also important,” said Akash, a class 12 student.Major roads in Chowk, Civil Lines and Katra witnessed prolonged traffic congestion, with movement slowing to a crawl on stretches of MG Road and Elgin Road as shoppers and vehicles crowded the festive markets, with e-rickshaws making traffic worse.