The situation worsened after the electricity supply was disrupted during the downpour, adding to the difficulties faced by traders and visitors at the fair.
People who had gathered at the fair were left disappointed as the sudden rain dampened the festive mood of the annual celebrations. Vendors selling dry fish, garments, spices and other items were worried after rainwater damaged their goods.
Strong winds along with the rain also shook several temporary stalls set up at the fair site. Traders were seen trying to secure their stalls and belongings to prevent further losses. Waterlogging under many stalls led to significant damage to stored items, while readymade garment sellers struggled to protect their stock.
Thunder and lightning added to the fear among visitors. Ironically, the rain came during peak business hours when vendors were expecting the highest footfall. While some residents welcomed the rainfall amid the hot weather, the unexpected showers largely dampened the spirit of the Purumentachem Fest.
Last year too, heavy rain disrupted the festivities in Sanguem, with several vendors forced to dismantle their stalls just three days after the feast began.
Traditionally, the fair lasts for nearly a week, but in recent years the number of vendors has dropped sharply. This decline has also badly affected sopo collection revenue from the fair.
