November 4, 2025

Panaji: Imagine working all day selling fresh fruits and vegetables standing in the open, without any shade or protection. This is the tough reality for six vendors near Panaji’s main market and fish market. They brave every kind of weather – hot sun, heavy rains, and chilly winds – as they sell their goods without a temporary shed or any hygiene facilities. Vendor Madhavi Pawar shares their daily battle, saying, "We usually sit at the main entrance of the market building. But sometimes we come here to sell vegetables and fruits, as we get many customers here. Govt and municipality made many assurances, but here we are." Last year, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) built a shed for fish and meat sellers, who earlier worked outdoors. But fruit and vegetable vendors like Pawar remain uncovered. She adds with a sigh, "The Parrikar govt would have immediately made the arrangements for us. He would have listened to us. No one listens to us now." Sunanda Shirodkar, a vegetable vendor for two decades, tells a story of displacement and dashed hopes. "We used to sit right outside the old market building, which is now a fish market. They had promised us a shed, but now we’ve been moved so vehicles can park here. There’s still no shade for us. Come summer, monsoon, or winter, we remain exposed," she laments. Monsoons bring extra misery, as vendor Natisha Naik explains, "Everything gets muddy. After the downpour, our vegetables are spoiled, and our income is ruined for the day." Efforts to contact CCP commissioner Clen Madeira and Mayor Rohit Monserrate for their response went unanswered. Meanwhile, these vendors continue their relentless fight to earn a living under open skies, hoping for a day when shelter and respect will come their way.

Read More at Timesofindia →

Tags: Fruit Vendors, Vegetable Sellers, Panaji Market, Weather Hardships, Street vendors, Municipal Promises,