The Pernem fish market in Goa has been severely affected by flooding following hours of relentless heavy rain, bringing attention to the ongoing infrastructure challenges faced by the region, especially during the receding monsoon season. Fish vendors, with a significant number of them being local fisherwomen, struggled to navigate and sell their catch in a market that was entirely submerged under water, exacerbating their already tough working conditions.
Local vendor Jotsna Kamulkar expressed her frustration over the situation, emphasizing that the issues related to the market’s infrastructure were well-known long before the onset of the monsoon season. “We urged the municipality and local leaders to address these problems, but unfortunately, nothing significant was done. Now, we are left with no choice but to sell fish in this flooded water,” she lamented. Her comments reflect a broader sentiment among vendors who feel neglected by local authorities.
The recent heavy downpour not only led to rapid waterlogging in the fish market but also created a ripple effect throughout the region, making various parts of Goa difficult to navigate. The flooding contributed to significant traffic congestion, hindering the movement of vehicles and pedestrians alike. Commuters faced delays and challenges as roads became inundated, highlighting the pressing need for improved drainage systems and infrastructure to manage such weather events.
The plight of the fisherwomen and other vendors has ignited calls for urgent action from government and local authorities. Many have urged the need for a new fish market that can withstand adverse weather conditions, ensuring that vendors can operate safely and effectively, regardless of the monsoon season’s impact. They argue that without better infrastructure, their livelihoods remain at risk, and the safety of both vendors and consumers is compromised.
In response to the flooding, the vendors are organizing to present their demands to local government officials, advocating for immediate attention to the market’s condition and the development of more resilient structures. They believe that establishing a reliable and well-maintained fish market is not only crucial for their business but also essential for maintaining the community’s seafood supply chain, which plays a significant role in the local economy.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the flooding, the situation serves as a reminder of the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure development in Goa, particularly in areas prone to heavy rainfall. The collective voice of the fish vendors underscores the importance of proactive measures to address the infrastructural weaknesses that leave them vulnerable during critical weather events.
Source: The Goan
