Traders at one of the most thriving markets of Bahrain were disappointed yesterday when no customers showed up following its re-opening.

They were prepared and hoping to receive hundreds of customers following the re-opening of their temporary shops in the parking lot of Ramez, but just a few came to support them.

The Isa Town traditional market is back in business after temporary stalls have been erected near the site where fire gutted more than 500 shops on July 15.

The GDN spoke to some traders who braved the scorching heat, waiting for customers and business.

"We moved to temporary stalls erected near Ramez, which enabled us to continue selling our items on a limited basis for our local clients," said trader Majed Mohammed Salem.

"A huge number was expected to turn out, but I saw only two people, who didn't come to us but went to Ramez.

"I don't see anyone here as it's Ramadan and Friday, so people prefer sleeping rather than coming out to support us in this weather.

"We were expecting support from the people, but I am really disappointed and hope they will come once they know about us being back in business."

Another trader Mahmood Taitoon went to the suq in the afternoon, hoping people would come before Iftar but returned home with distress.

"But no one was there and I was really upset," he said.

"I was hoping to see people and we all want to meet fire brigade officers and police to see what happens next.

"I didn't stay there for long and came back home, as it was too hot to stand there.

"We are still trying to find out what is the actual cause of the fire and waiting for a final report from the Civil Defence.

"We lost everything. We are trying to rebuild our lives back to normal.

"The shop owners I am speaking with are worried about when they can reopen.

"I'm sure everyone involved will do everything they can to let that happen as soon as possible."

Trader Mohammed Ali Abdulla said Central Municipality provided space to a few traders only and not all.

"The municipality provided space and some traders erected temporary stalls near the suq," said Mr Abdulla.

"It's not for everybody and I believe there is no point going there if we don't get customers.

"I think they would probably be back to the suq after Eid or wait for its complete renovation, which could take months."

Another trader, Amina Abbas, said His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa visited the suq and ordered immediate help but she is still waiting for compensation.

"I didn't go there as I am fasting and the weather is too hot," she said.

"What's the use going there and standing under the temporary stalls in this heat, and getting no customers.

"We have already started clearing debris from the site, rebuilding and re-equipping the shops, in addition to maintaining the business, and it has presented huge challenges.

"I would like to thank the local community, who were really supportive following the fire, and the authorities, who worked on rebuilding the market.

"Without their support we will not be able to stand back on out feet and return to business.

"I have a complaint that even after orders from HRH the Premier, we have not received any help.

"We don't have money at all and we need help."

The GDN reported that merchants whose goods were destroyed in the blaze have filed claims for compensation at the Central Municipality, but are still waiting for authorities to come back with a financial package.

A total of 509 stalls, operated by Bahrainis and expatriates, were gutted in last month's fire, which resulted in losses estimated at hundreds of thousands of dinars.

The fire reportedly started at a stall selling electronics items, although the exact cause remains unknown.

The area where the fire started has been cleared but remains cordoned off, while Civil Defence and police personnel continue to be stationed at the market.

However, the entrance to the market is now open to the public.