Bhatkal, September 1, 2025: The newly constructed hi-tech fish market on Hospital Road, inaugurated by Bhatkal Municipality, opened on Monday morning but saw no vendors for several hours, leaving customers disappointed.

The market, designed to provide a clean and modern space for fish trading, officially opened at 7 am. However, not a single vendor arrived until noon, despite early buyers turning up in anticipation of fresh catch. Witnesses reported that customers had to return empty-handed, as fish sellers appeared to stage a collective boycott.

It was only around midday that a lone vendor arrived with kingfish and prawns, which were quickly sold out. His decision to support the new facility drew appreciation from buyers, who urged others to follow his example.

Municipal in-charge president Altaf Kharuri acknowledged that the opening day was disappointing. He revealed that while several vendors had earlier assured their participation, they backed out after being discouraged by others. Expressing optimism, Kharuri said the municipality remained committed to making the new market a success and appealed to residents to support the facility as more sellers gradually come on board.