MARGAO: Hours after authorities took strict action against retail fish sale at the Wholesale Fish Market, several migrant fish vendors were seen selling fish on the roadside, mere meters away from the market.
Frustrated citizens expressed anger, alleging that the authorities are only targeting local vendors while allowing migrants to continue selling retail fish without restraint.
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Migrant fish vendors were noticed conducting business on the road leading to Seraulim, just a stone’s throw away from the wholesale market, and they appeared fearless in doing so.
What raised eyebrows was the absence of workers from the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) or the SGPDA to take action against these retail roadside vendors.
Responding to the issue, an MMC official acknowledged that migrant fish vendors may have seized the opportunity to sell fish on the roadside after noticing the presence of MMC workers. He also admitted that it is the civic body’s responsibility to address illegal businesses on the roadside.
“This is a clear case of harassment against local fish vendors, while migrants operate their businesses without fear. The authorities and the government have, to date, failed to address the issues faced by local fisherfolk, who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Peter Carvalho, a resident of Seraulim. He called on the authorities, including the MMC, to closely monitor and take action against illegal fish vendors in the area.
