MARGAO: The South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) board meeting resolved to expedite the tendering process for the wholesale fish market’s controversial ‘sopo’ fee collection within two months.
It may be recalled that there have been recent clashes with the wholesale fish traders association and the temporary contractor appointed by SGPDA as well as Goan fish vendors as to where they can sell fish. They objected to migrant vendors selling fish at the same spot and the matter had even reached the police last week.
SGPDA chairman Krishna ‘Daji’ Salkar said the previous tender was withdrawn due to opposition from potential bidders and the traditional fishing community regarding a clause requiring prior ‘sopo’ collection experience.
SGPDA chairman Krishna ‘Daji’ Salkar explained that many traditional stakeholders have fishing and selling experience but not in ‘sopo’ collection.
Salkar claimed that resolving the technical processes took time, but once the tender is released, the current issues will be resolved.
Sources indicate that Salkar mediated between the conflicting parties, and the matter has been resolved.
However, the wholesale fish traders also had a meeting on Thursday and are expected to convey their stance publicly on Friday morning.
