Women shoppers fall; vendors blame poor upkeep, waterlogging
The sorry state of affairs at the SGPDA mega retail fish market due to poor upkeep and maintenance.
MARGAO
The SGPDA mega retail market has once again come under scrutiny after multiple incidents of women shoppers slipping and falling due to hazardous conditions inside the premises. Though no serious injuries were reported, the incidents have raised fresh concerns over public safety and the deteriorating state of the market infrastructure.
According to fish vendors, at least three such mishaps have occurred in recent days, all attributed to the slippery flooring caused by poor maintenance and water accumulation. “How do you expect people to visit the market when the floor has turned so slippery? And how are we supposed to earn a living if customers stop coming?” questioned a fisherwoman, expressing frustration over the situation.
The market, which was renovated nearly a decade ago on the lines of the Dubai fish market, is now lying in a state of neglect. Vendors say the facility has been “crying for attention” for the past several years, but neither the SGPDA nor the government has taken concrete steps to address the issue. The floor tiles are broken, the pavers are damaged, and wastewater flows openly through the market, creating an unbearable stench,” the fisherwoman added.
Vendors fear that the worsening conditions will continue to drive customers away, severely impacting their livelihoods.
Adding to their concerns is the alleged inaction against migrant vendors who are selling fish in the wholesale section on a retail basis right under the nose of the PDA authorities. Licensed vendors operating within the designated retail market claim this has further dented their business prospects.
The issue of the market’s condition had earlier been discussed at an SGPDA meeting, where members resolved to approach the government with a proposal seeking a one-time grant for comprehensive renovation of the facility. However, there has been no update on the status of the proposal, leaving vendors uncertain about any immediate relief.
As safety concerns mount and infrastructure continues to decline, both vendors and shoppers are urging authorities to act swiftly before the situation worsens further.
