No lessons seem to have been learned, as the Margao wholesale fish market witnessed rush and chaos, with all social distancing norms not followed at all after it was re-opened.
The fish market, run by the South Goa District Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) was ordered to be shut for five days after several cases of COVID-19 were reported from the premises of the market – mainly from the cutting shed area. Three fish cutters and two fish sellers had reportedly tested positive.
The wholesale fish market at the Madel area of the city was opened on August 26, although fish cutters were not allowed.
The fish vendors were also issued a show-cause notice by the SGPDA earlier, as they failed to follow all safety protocols laid down in view of the COVID-19 pandemic while conducting business within the market premises.
Social distancing norms were also openly disobeyed by many around the area. Also, no availability of hand sanitisers was also noticed within the wholesale market premises.
However, no difference was seen on the ground when the market premises were opened recently. The market witnesses a huge inflow mainly with fish vehicles from outside the state lining up from as early as four in the morning.
No social distancing was maintained, as many fish sellers and customers crowded around the market area sellers. The entire business within the market however raises important questions if the sale of a fish business can be done following all norms.
This violation is also not the first, as the wholesale market has been in the limelight previously for all the wrong reasons.
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