Team Herald
PONDA: With Ponda fish market shut due to the COVID-19 lockdown, the civic body on Thursday said it has decided to create special vending zone for fish vendors in an open space within a week to provide locals with fish at cheaper rates.
Following complaints from locals about the exorbitant rates charged by roadside vendors, the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) informed that it has identified sites at old bus stand and in other areas.
PMC chairperson Venktesh Naik said, “Due to lockdown and social distancing rules as compared to other markets in the State, PMC cannot open the fish and vegetable markets which operate in sheds having lone entry and exit point. It is very difficult to maintain social distancing and hence the fish market remained shut. Due to its closure, vendors have spread across the town and in other areas with some selling fish at exorbitant rates. The fish rates vary at different places with many locals complaining that they have been selling fish at exorbitant rates.”
Naik said, “Taking cognisance of the complaints from locals we convened a special meeting to discuss the issue and within one week fish vendors will be allowed to operate at a common place to ensure fish is sold at a cheaper rate and this will provide relief to customers.”
“When fined for not wearing masks, the offenders should be provided with free masks. The challan once issued, there is every possibility of the offender roaming unmasked which could result in the spread of virus. Challan books should be provided to PMC officials so that they can impose fines which will generate revenue for the civic body,” Naik added.
