Mumbai Mayor dismisses rumours of fish-cutting ban at Vakola market

Pic/BMC

Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde on Thursday clarified that the has not imposed any restrictions on fish cutting at the Vakola fish market or any other fish markets across the city, amid reports circulating on social media and some media platforms claiming otherwise.

During a visit to the Vakola fish market on Thursday morning, Tawde interacted with fisherwomen and local vendors and assured them that they could continue their business activities without fear or hesitation.

Addressing vendors at the market, the Mayor said the civic body had issued no directive prohibiting fish cutting and reiterated that the administration stood firmly behind the fishing community.

Mayor appeals against misinformation

The clarification comes after reports and social media posts alleged that the local municipal administration had barred fish vendors from cutting fish at the Vakola market in suburban Mumbai.

Refuting the claims, Tawde described the reports as misinformation and urged residents and vendors not to believe rumours being spread online.

She said the fishing community has a deep-rooted connection with Mumbai and referred to fisherfolk as among the city's original inhabitants. According to the Mayor, both the civic administration and elected representatives would continue to support the community and protect their livelihood.

Tawde also assured vendors that no harassment or obstruction to their work would be tolerated.

Fisherwomen deny facing harassment

During her interaction with vendors, several fisherwomen reportedly informed the Mayor that they had not been stopped from carrying out their business and were not facing any difficulties at the market.

The Mayor said that if any individual or group attempts to obstruct the work of fish vendors, the matter would be addressed immediately by the civic administration.

Her visit was aimed at addressing concerns among vendors following the circulation of the alleged restriction reports, which had created confusion among members of the fishing community.

The Vakola fish market is one of several local fish markets serving suburban Mumbai, where thousands of vendors and fisherwomen depend on daily trade for their livelihood. The clarification from the Mayor is expected to reassure vendors across the city who were concerned over reports suggesting possible restrictions on fish-cutting activities at local markets.