Seven years after the demolition of the old Quepem market, local vendors continue to struggle for a proper place to conduct business. Vegetable and fish vendors, along with small traders, remain confined to a temporary shed at the edge of the town. The shed lacks even the most basic amenities, including toilets and adequate cover, leaving vendors to operate in uncomfortable and unhygienic conditions.
In 2021, a new market complex was formally inaugurated in the presence of Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, yet the facility has remained unopened to vendors and the public. Current Chairperson Deepali Naik has claimed she is unaware of the building’s operational status and even denied any formal inauguration, despite earlier announcements.
Meanwhile, the unused market complex—already equipped with lighting—has started showing signs of rust and deterioration due to neglect. The prolonged delay has fueled anger and disappointment among vendors and residents, who are urging authorities to immediately open the complex and provide traders with proper facilities to run their businesses.