Bhatkal: Prominent NRI, General Secretary of Rabita Society, and Vice President of Majlis-e-Islah wa Tanzeem Bhatkal, Ateequr Rahman Muniri, visited the newly-inaugurated Hi-Tech Fish Market in Bhatkal on Sunday. During his visit, he lauded the facilities and cleanliness maintained at the market, describing it as comparable to the hygienic fish markets of the Gulf. “It felt as though I were walking through a hygienic fish market in Dubai,” he remarked.
Mr. Muniri highlighted that the market offers well-organized parking facilities, clean surroundings, toilets, and adequate seating arrangements for both the public and vendors. He particularly appreciated the efficient drainage system for fish water, noting that the responsibility now lies with the public to make full use of these amenities. Recalling the conditions of the old fish market, he pointed out that it was often congested with traffic, unhygienic, and difficult to navigate, with videos circulating on social media clearly exposing its poor state.
Expressing appreciation for the efforts of the Bhatkal Municipality, Mr. Muniri commended officials, especially incharge President Altaf Kharuri, for showing the determination to open the new market for public use. He also congratulated the local youth who played a crucial role in promoting the market and encouraging the public to support it, stating that their efforts gave an appropriate response to critics.
He further appealed to the residents of Bhatkal, as well as fish traders, to fully shift their business operations to the new facility, thereby strengthening the market and ensuring the availability of fresh and hygienic fish for consumers.
As the market is located adjacent to the Sunday Market (Sante Market), an unusually large crowd was witnessed on Sunday. The rush of customers was also evident inside the premises. However, due to the shortage of space, several women vendors were forced to sell fish outside.
Responding to this concern, Altaf Kharuri stated that arrangements will be discussed in the upcoming municipal meeting to either provide a tented space outside for these vendors or explore alternative solutions. He also revealed plans to cover the drainage channels inside the market with grills in the coming days to prevent inconvenience for visitors while walking.