Fish caught locally are fresh, pure, say fisherfolks.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The formalin scare was affecting fish vendors badly and the sales have halved claimed fisher women who protested in front of Secretariat by cooking fish on Tuesday. They called for increased awareness on the quality of fish caught locally. Fish from the markets at Manacaud, Palayam, Kumarapuram, Keshavadasapuram, Peroorkada and Pettah markets were brought in front of Secretariat early morning.
The fisherwomen made tapioca and curry out Tuna, Mack-ereal and Prawns to demonstrate their quality. “The formalin laced fish come from other states. The ones caught locally are consumed by our family and are safe. We invite officials to check the quality,” said Rajamma Cleetus a protestor. National Fish Worke-rs Forum general secretary T. Peter said that there is at least 40 to 50 per cent drop in sales ever since the news of formalin laced fish started making headlines
“There have been attempts from those with vested interests to dent fish sales. Fishermen serve the protein needs of people in Kerala. Government should take steps to protect the fish sellers,” said Mr Peter. The cost of meat products also have been steadily raising ever since the trawling season has begun. The fisherwomen threatened to start fish sales in front of Secretariat if government did not address their concerns.
