Bhatkal, September 3, 2025: The newly inaugurated hi-tech fish market on Hospital Road, Bhatkal, is now bustling with activity, drawing large crowds of buyers and vendors just days after a lackluster opening on September 1. The modern facility, constructed by Bhatkal Municipality at a cost of ₹1.38 crore, is being hailed as a significant upgrade over the old, congested fish market, offering world-class amenities including dedicated parking, proper vendor stands, and advanced cleaning equipment.

The market’s opening day was marked by disappointment, with no vendors showing up until noon due to a reported boycott by some sellers. However, the tide has turned, and the facility is now seeing a surge in participation. A diverse range of fresh fish, including kingfish and prawns, is available at competitive prices, attracting buyers from across the region.

Community Voices Support for New Facility

Local residents and leaders have expressed enthusiasm for the market, urging the community to embrace the change. “The government has provided us with a beautiful, hygienic facility, but people need more awareness to fully utilize it,” said a community member. “The old market had severe parking issues and was unhygienic. We complained about the lack of government action, and now that we have this new market, we must support it.”

Another resident praised the market’s cleanliness and infrastructure, stating, “The facilities here are world-class—clean, spacious, with ample parking. Fresh fish is readily available, and I encourage all Bhatkal residents to visit and take advantage of this opportunity.”

A community leader thanked Bhatkal Tanzeem and Bhatkal Municipality for their efforts, emphasizing the health risks posed by the old market. “The old fish market was surrounded by garbage, leading to diseases like typhoid and malaria. This new market offers a clean environment and a wide variety of fresh fish at affordable prices. Our goal is to make this one of the most prominent fish-selling hubs in coastal Karnataka.”

A Long-Awaited Demand Fulfilled

The new fish market addresses a demand that dates back to 2018, driven by the poor conditions of the old market, which was cramped and posed health risks. Advocate Santosh Nayak, former president of Bhatkal Taluk Block Congress, highlighted the significance of the initiative. “The old market was in a deplorable state, with no proper arrangements for sellers or buyers. The new facility is a game-changer for both. Initially, there was resistance, as seen in similar transitions like Shirale’s fish market, but vendors will gradually move here and reserve their spaces.”

A municipality leader added, “After years of pressure and government procedures, we successfully opened this ₹1.38 crore facility on September 1. It’s a clean, hygienic space designed to benefit the entire community.”

Overcoming Initial Challenges

On the opening day, the absence of vendors left early customers disappointed, with only one seller arriving by midday to offer kingfish and prawns, which sold out quickly. Municipal in-charge president Altaf Kharuri acknowledged the setback but remained optimistic, stating, “Despite some vendors backing out due to external discouragement, we are committed to making this market a success. We appeal to residents to support this initiative as more sellers join.”

A Bright Future for Bhatkal’s Fish Trade

With its modern infrastructure and growing popularity, the new fish market is poised to transform Bhatkal’s fish trade. The facility not only addresses long-standing issues of hygiene and space but also positions Bhatkal as a potential hub for fresh, affordable seafood in coastal Karnataka. Community leaders and residents alike are calling for continued support to ensure the market’s success.

With inputs from Fikrokhabar Bhatkal and Bhatkalnews