Post News Network
Cuttack, March 7: Bamboo craftsmen are working overtime to cash in on the rising mercury levels with the meteorological department predicting a harsh summer.
The craftsmen in Jobra are busy preparing products such as cooling mats, coir mats, hand fans and baskets.
People from all walks of life can find something of their choice at these shops and the products are much in demand already. “Fruits sellers ask us to make different sizes of baskets. Housewives buy small-sized bamboo containers to store vegetables,” said Muthu K, a cane seller.
In Orissa, even in homes where advanced cooling options are available people prefer to use cane mats made of bamboo strips. These are spread on the floor and often used to lie on.
“It is more comfortable to sleep on a cane mat than a thick mattress during the hot and humid summer of Orissa,” said Naresh Panigrahi, a resident of Link Road who was busy buying some mats.
Besides, ‘benachars’, which are basically made from the root of ‘khus’ and are used in the making of mats, are in high demand. These are also used by eateries that cannot afford air-conditioners as they keep the atmosphere cool.
