Nadukuppam gets new fish market after 18 months

Nadukuppam’s fisherfolk were a visibly happy lot, as they examined the brand-new premises of the permanent fish market, which sprung up after the earlier structure was destroyed during the Jallikattu protests. 

The state government had constructed a temporary fish market at a cost of Rs 14.43 lakh, even while the new premises were under construction. Sources from Greater Chennai Corporation, which marshalled the construction, revealed that the permanent fish market was constructed at a cost of Rs 1.22 crores. 

Umapathi B, the head of Nadukuppam fishing hamlet, said that all those who plied their business at the old fish market would be allotted tokens after a meeting with all the residents to be held over the next few days. 

“There are 112 stalls and we have close to a hundred or so vendors who were selling in the old fish market before it was razed to the ground. All those vendors will be given a spot. In addition, the left-over spot will be allocated to fishermen who can sell their catch directly from the sea,” he added. During the inauguration, Umapathi had also communicated the additional requirements for the fish market. 

“We had asked for amenities such as a freezer box for all stalls and fans, which the minister said will be looked into,” added the fisher-leader.