Concerns have once again been raised over the unhygienic conditions at the wholesale fish market in Margao, managed by the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA). The market, which caters to a large section of South Goa’s population as well as the hospitality industry, has reportedly deteriorated further during the monsoon.
Complaints have emerged about the worsening situation during the rains, with critics questioning why the issue continues to persist despite repeated assurances from the SGPDA that it would be addressed.
Responding to media queries on the matter, Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai said he would write to the Chief Minister, urging that a cleaning service agency be appointed to ensure regular maintenance of the market premises. He alleged that the SGPDA seems more focused on collecting fees—using bouncer-like personnel for the task—than on addressing hygiene concerns. He stressed that deploying a proper cleaning agency is essential.
Sardesai added that since the SGPDA is in the process of tendering the work related to both maintenance and revenue collection at the market, it is important that the clause for cleaning services is specifically included in the tender.
He also noted that the Chief Minister has agreed to his earlier request to repaint the soon-to-be-inaugurated section of the wholesale fish market, stating that the previous design lacked authenticity, while the new artwork will better represent the local fishing community.