Fisherfolk participating in the annual Purumentachem Fest at the Old Market in Margao have voiced concern over a significant drop in dry fish sales during the first half of the seven-day fair.
Vendors said customer turnout has been noticeably lower compared to previous years, affecting overall business despite stalls offering a wide range of traditional dry fish varieties.
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Traditional fisherwomen from Salcete and nearby areas stated that prices of popular dry fish items such as solea, mackerels, and prawns have risen due to increasing transportation and processing costs. According to vendors, reduced consumer spending and changing purchasing habits may also be contributing to the weaker response witnessed this year.
Several stall owners said they are now hopeful that the upcoming weekend will attract larger crowds and improve sales before the fair concludes.
Fisherfolk noted that the Purumentachem Fest has remained an important traditional marketplace event for decades and expressed optimism that business activity will pick up during the remaining days of the festival.
