Continuous conflicts among middlemen at the Labasa Dry Goods Market are causing significant concerns among vendors, who report that these disputes hinder business operations, compromise safety, and contribute to poor market cleanliness. Stallholder Amirka Prasad highlighted that the fighting and congestion particularly affect elderly vendors, stressing the urgent need for improved management and a new market master.
“This is the dry goods market; it’s clearly written there, but we have vendors coming in with green goods. It’s becoming dirty, and even some of the vendors are elderly. It’s really congested at times,” Prasad said. He advocated for a stronger police presence to enhance security and proposed lowering stall fees to alleviate the financial burden on struggling vendors.
Samuela Ligairi, the Labasa Special Administrator, acknowledged that the Town Council is aware of the issues and is actively working with vendors. The Council is utilizing CCTV for monitoring and has initiated enhancements to the market’s exterior. Despite these ongoing efforts, vendors are seeking further improvements to ensure a safe and organized environment.
This situation mirrors previous concerns about deteriorating local markets in the region, such as the Labasa Fish Market, where infrastructure upgrades are also being planned. Vendors at the Labasa Market have previously voiced the need for facility enhancements to address issues like dust, inadequate roofing, and safety hazards. These ongoing discussions reflect a commitment from local authorities to engage with vendors and address their concerns.
As stakeholders collaborate on improving market conditions, there is a hopeful outlook for the future. Upgrades to infrastructure and better management practices can foster a vibrant marketplace that supports local economic growth and community engagement. With concerted efforts to resolve current grievances, a safer and more efficient marketplace can emerge, benefiting both vendors and patrons alike.