NT NETWORK

Panaji

The fish market in Panaji came back to life on Sunday after remaining closed for more than a month owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Fish-loving people came to the market to buy fish, but many of them were disappointed by steep prices.

Fish vendors were seen selling fresh catch but at higher prices, putting off the customers. The vendors were seen wearing face masks and keeping social distancing, as police personnel were keeping a hawk’s eye on the market at the entry and exit points.

Pomfrets were sold at Rs 1400 a kg, while a big-sized mackerel was sold for Rs 100; small and medium-sized mackerels were sold for Rs 400 a kg. A sliced piece of king fish was sold for Rs 150 and Rs 200 while white prawns were sold for Rs 400 a kg. Squids were going at Rs 400 a kg and soles (lepo) were sold for Rs 300 a kg.

The CCP has made elaborate arrangements for the entry and exit of customers. 

Spots were circled for maintaining social distance by the customers.

Actually the market regained its luster on Sunday as eggs and chickens were transported and wholesalers bought the food products, which were lapped up by people who stood in a long queue to buy them.

Selling of vegetables and fruits has already begun near the INOX complex. There has been good demand for local vegetables.

It must be noted here that prices of mankuraad mangoes have come down from Rs 1200 to Rs 800 and Rs 700 a dozen; the Alfonso variety of mango was sold for Rs 500-Rs 600 a dozen.

The market was open from early morning hours till the afternoon.