Modern fish market soon

The much anticipated new fish market at Peliyagoda will be opened next month, according to Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Ministry sources.

Sources said, over 95 percent of the work at the state-of the art fish market has been completed and the complex will be opened as scheduled early next month.

Torrential rains inundated the access road and the surrounding area of the complex causing a hassle to workers who are putting the final touches to the new market.

The modern market was constructed at a cost of Rs. 1,500 million partly funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The ADB loan component is US$ 6.8 million.

Sri Lanka's premier fish retailer, the St. John's Fish Market in Pettah was relocated at a site in extent of 3.7 acres is adjacent to the Colombo-Katunayake road.

Country Director ADB Richard Vokes said the former fish market was relocated to provide sufficient space for suppliers, traders and consumers, ensure food safety and quality fish products, handle increase in harvest and avoid congestion in Pettah.LF