Ahmedabad: The Ahmedabad International Flower Show, organized by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) at the Sabarmati Riverfront Flower Park from Jan 1 to 29, saw a lacklustre response. High ticket prices are being blamed for a 2,00,000 fewer visitors this year compared to the previous year. While the AMC spent Rs 17 crore on the show, it generated only Rs 11.67 crore in revenue.The show was extended by a week until Jan 29. Despite the longer duration, the increased entry fees deterred many with weekday entry at Rs 80 for individuals above 12 years and weekend entry at Rs 100. The AMC also launched special VVIP category tickets for the 9pm to 10pm slot, but due to poor interest, the arrangement was discontinued midway through the event.In 2025, the show ran from Jan 3 to 26. The AMC spent Rs 13.05 crore, attracted over 1.3 million visitors, and earned Rs 15.10 crore. In contrast, the 2026 edition, despite lasting 29 days, saw only 1.1 million visitors.Sources said that high ticket prices were not the only deterrent. Poor management forced visitors to walk 1 to 2 kilometres after parking their vehicles, causing significant inconvenience. While the AMC anticipated 1.5 million visitors, the turnout fell short of expectations. As a result, there is a strong possibility that entry fees will be reduced for the next year’s event. Devang Dani, chairman of the standing committee, said, “A total of 10.81 lakh citizens visited the flower show. Revenue included Rs 8.41 crore from entry fees, Rs 1.56 crore from stall rentals, Rs 1.40 crore from sponsorships, and Rs 24 lakh from billboard advertisements. The plants from the show will now be moved for display on central verges and in various city gardens.”
