Residents and local activists have voiced strong resentment over the illegal sale of unhygienic fish taking place just a few metres away from the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) wholesale fish market, within the jurisdiction of the Seraulim panchayat.
The activity, allegedly carried out by migrant vendors, has raised serious concerns over public health, food safety, and administrative negligence.
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According to locals, large quantities of rotten fish are being sold openly along the Western Bypass Road under unhygienic conditions. The fish is reportedly displayed without ice, protective coverings, or basic sanitation, exposing it to dust, heat, and pollution from passing vehicles. Residents claim the vendors have set up an illegal “adda” in the area and continue operations without fear of enforcement action.
The situation has caused anger among residents, particularly because the illegal vending is taking place close to an officially regulated wholesale fish market where strict hygiene norms and licensing rules are mandated. Locals allege that despite the visibility of the activity, the Seraulim panchayat and other concerned authorities have failed to take timely action.
Social activist and local resident Milagres Fernandes visited the site along with other residents and later addressed the media, presenting evidence of the alleged unhygienic practices. Fernandes strongly criticised the authorities for overlooking the issue and demanded immediate intervention.
“It is extremely shocking to observe that totally unhygienic fish is being sold openly here without any checks by the authorities. These vendors have made their adda just a few metres away from the wholesale fish market within the jurisdiction of the Seraulim panchayat,” Fernandes said.
He further warned that the unchecked sale of unhygienic fish poses a serious risk to public health. “What is even more disturbing is that everyone appears to be silent on this matter. As a result, unhygienic fish is being sold openly and without fear by migrants,” he added.
Fernandes accused the Seraulim panchayat and other regulatory bodies of failing in their responsibility to safeguard consumers. He urged authorities to carry out immediate inspections, remove illegal vendors, and ensure that fish is sold only from authorised locations that comply with hygiene and food safety standards.
Residents also pointed out that the illegal vending has led to sanitation problems and traffic congestion along the busy Western Bypass Road. They warned that continued inaction could result in serious health hazards for unsuspecting consumers.
Fernandes informed that he would be filing a formal complaint with the concerned authorities, including the Collector, FDA and others seeking urgent action. Locals have demanded strict enforcement measures and regular monitoring to prevent such illegal activities from recurring in the area.
