Ponda: Poor conditions at the temporary Ponda fish market have become a matter of concern for vendors and customers, with heavy rainfall over the past few days leading to severe waterlogging in and around the market. The stagnant water has created unhygienic conditions and become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.The main Ponda fish market has remained closed for nearly two years for renovation, forcing vendors to operate from the parking basement. Vendors said the temporary arrangement has only added to their difficulties.Fish vendor Girija Naik said, “The main fish market is closed for renovation, but we don’t see much progress. During the monsoon, water gets logged and remains stagnant, making our situation even worse. We request the municipality to address this issue immediately and reopen the main fish market as soon as possible.”Another vendor said the stagnant water has made it extremely difficult to work. “Whenever water gets logged here, customers avoid coming to the market. The combination of muddy water, fish waste and stagnant water creates a terrible smell. I have to bring phenyl every day just to keep my area clean. The municipal council members see the condition, but no effective action has been taken,” she said.The old fish market building has been declared unsafe, following which vendors were shifted to the basement parking area outside the main market, said Ponda Municipal Council chief officer Bhimnath Khorjuvekar.“The existing fish market will soon be demolished to make way for a new fish market building. We are aware of the difficulties vendors are facing due to the temporary arrangement in the basement parking area. Since this is only a temporary measure, our immediate focus is on maintaining cleanliness. Earlier, waste was collected on alternate days, but considering the present situation, we have started collecting waste on a daily basis,” said Khorjuvekar.Buyers visiting the market also expressed concern over the unhygienic conditions.Vendors and buyers have appealed to the Ponda Municipal Council to clear the stagnant water, improve sanitation at the temporary market, and expedite construction of the new fish market to ensure a clean and safe environment.
