New state-of-the-art fish market

by Lalin FERNANDOPULLE

Construction of a new fish market at Peliyagoda will be completed by the end of the year providing more space and convenience for local and international trade.

Neomal Perera

Work on this project commenced last year with an investment of Rs. 1.6 billion financed by the government and the Asian Development Bank.

The relocation of St. John's Fish Market at Pettah was a long felt need due to the lack of space and modern facilities for expansion. Cleanliness of the city and reducing traffic congestion were envisaged in launching the project.

The Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Neomal Perera said the new fish market complex is a prototype of Penan in Malaysia with state-of-the-art facilities for wholesale and retail trade.

"The market has high storage facilities, freezing units, auction halls and an ice plant set up to meet international standards", he said.

As there is more fishing in the North and the East now, the price of fish could come down further.

Fishermen of the North and East have been provided with boats and engines at a cost of Rs. 60 million. Steps were taken to increase the number of hatcheries to provide jobs and help uplift the rural economy.

The number of hatcheries will increased to four after the renovation of the Iranamadu Tank which is expected to commence operations by the end of the year.