Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: In a decisive move to curb the illegal sale of fish, Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Girish Borker, along with MMC inspectors and Vasco police, conducted a surprise drive against fish wholesalers in Kharewado on the first day of the new year. The drive resulted in the seizure of fish from several outlets operating illegally in the area.
Speaking to the media after the operation, Borker emphasized that the crackdown was necessary to protect the interests of vendors in the Vasco fish market, who have been struggling due to the burgeoning illegal trade in Kharewado.
Illegal Operations Persist Despite Warnings
“MMC has repeatedly instructed these fish wholesalers to cease illegal sales, but the problem persists despite previous efforts by several chairpersons. We have now resorted to confiscating their goods and imposing fines,” said Borker. He noted that the illegal operations, which started with just two outlets, have now transformed the area into an unregulated market with vendors occupying roadsides.
Borker highlighted that local residents are buying fish at cheaper rates from these illegal sellers, causing losses for Vasco fish market vendors. He called for coordinated action from other authorities, including the police and traffic department, to address the issue comprehensively.
Authorities Urged to Take Action
“The police, RTO, and traffic police must start issuing challans and fines to vehicles parked here for wholesale fish sales. Only through coordinated efforts can we put an end to this issue and support the survival of Vasco fish market vendors,” Borker stated.
He also called on residents to cooperate by refraining from buying from illegal vendors and urged the authorities to act against roadside sellers citywide.
Action Against Handcarts and Illegal Structures
Borker announced that the MMC has begun targeting food handcarts operating illegally after hours across the city’s footpaths. He proposed imposing hefty fines to deter such vendors and requested police and traffic authorities to enforce penalties for occupying parking spaces.
“We have instructed inspectors to carry out regular drives, confiscate goods, and check the legality of shades and structures in the area. Any unauthorised constructions will be demolished, and signboards advertising wholesale fish outlets will also be removed,” Borker added.
A Call for Regulated Wholesale Operations
Addressing the lack of a dedicated wholesale fish market in the area, Borker noted that legal requirements mandate a three-kilometre distance between markets, leaving no space within Vasco city’s jurisdiction. He suggested potential solutions, such as fixed operating hours or accommodating wholesalers in the new fish market under strict regulations.
“Both retailers and wholesalers need to reach a mutual agreement to ensure smooth operations without harming the city’s organized markets. This will not only resolve the issue but also offer customers more choices,” Borker concluded.
The MMC has reiterated its commitment to resolving the issue and protecting the city’s markets from unregulated competition. Further drives are expected in the coming days.
