Sambalpur, April 7: Two modern fish markets will be developed at Danipali and Gobindtola in the city - for which the Odisha Urban Infrastructure Development Fund has agreed to give financial assistance.

"The Sambalpur Municipal Corporation had submitted a proposal to the fund regarding the setting up of the hygienic fish markets. Around Rs 2.35 crore will be spent to carry out the project," said the civic body's deputy commissioner Sudhansu Bhoi.

"There will be 40 chambers in each of the fish market. The municipal corporation has already identified the sites at Gobindtola and Danipali. The land at Gobindtola belongs to the civic body, while the revenue department owns the land at Danipali. Sambalpur residents will have a good buying experience after the fish markets are developed. The markets will be convenient for both the sellers and the consumers," said Bhoi.

"The markets will have advanced refrigeration system, weighing system, ample running water, proper drainage and waste disposal system. The vendors, who will be allotted chambers in the fish market, will have to pay a fee. The municipal corporation will execute the construction of the markets while the fund will also provide technical assistance," Bhoi said.

At present, fishes are being sold in unhygienic conditions at several places in the city with some of the shops located near drains as well.

"Golebazar is the only organised market in Sambalpur and has a separate place for the fish vendors. But, there are only a handful of fish sellers, who have been accommodated here," said local resident Ranjit Barik.

"Buying fishes is a nightmarish experience in the city. The markets are run down and operate in an extremely unhygienic condition, and this could lead to serious health problems. I am really happy to know that the hygienic fish markets will be developed in the city. It would be a boon to the consumers," said another local resident, Santosh Sahu.