Vendors at the Nausori Market are expressing serious concerns regarding the issue of unlicensed seafood sales, which they believe is negatively impacting their legitimate businesses. The situation has escalated as unauthorized sellers operate along the fish market corridor, detracting from the sales of licensed vendors who pay market fees.
Praveen Singh, a spokesperson for the Nausori Fish Market, has voiced his frustrations to local authorities on multiple occasions, yet he feels his warnings have gone unheeded. Singh emphasizes the importance of designated selling areas within the market, as these locations are not only meant to streamline sales but also to adhere to occupational health and safety standards.
The presence of unlicensed vendors has significantly affected the dynamic of the fish market, leading licensed vendors to prefer outdoor sales rather than occupying their official stalls. Singh notes that this trend has resulted in many empty cubicles inside the market.
Additionally, Singh has criticized the Nausori Town Council for neglecting its responsibilities to maintain cleanliness within the market. Vendors are reportedly left to manage cleanliness themselves, which poses potential health hazards. Despite continuous efforts to raise these issues with the Market Master and the Ministry of Fisheries, there has been little to no action taken to address the situation.
As the situation develops, FBC News has reached out to the Nausori Town Council and the Ministry of Fisheries for comments and is currently awaiting a response. The ongoing concerns underline the importance of regulatory oversight in local markets to ensure the welfare of both vendors and customers. With a collective push from the community and authorities, there is hope for a resolution that could restore the integrity and safety of the Nausori Fish Market.