BY CHRIS ALEX
Honiara City Council (HCC) has announced the relocation of fish vendors from Honiara Central Market to White River Fish Market as part of an executive decision that aims to improve hygiene and make way for essential maintenance and long-term urban development.
Speaking to Island Sun, HCC Market Master, Stanley Araha said the relocation aligns with the council’s Central Market development plan. The area, which has seen no major maintenance since 1996, is now scheduled for critical repairs including underground pipeline works and fence restoration.
He explained that this is not just a renovation but urgent maintenance work.
“The underground drainage and pipeline systems need fixing to address the persistent foul smell and unhealthy conditions around the market. We also want to discourage the growing trend of street-side fish vending which is both unhygienic and disorganized,” Araha said.
He emphasized that White River Fish Market, opened earlier this year, was designed specifically to accommodate fish vendors and provide a more sanitary and regulated environment for fish trade.
Araha added that the relocation will reduce congestion in the Central Market and support the council’s broader vision for urban development in Honiara.
“From 1996 until now, no proper upgrades have been done here. If we continue allowing fish marketing in its current state, it will hinder the long-term development of the Honiara Central Market.
“We are committed to creating a cleaner, safer, and more modern market space for everyone vendors, customers, and tourists alike,” he said.
Looking ahead, Araha noted that the future use of the Central Market space including whether it will again host fish sales or other sectors will depend on decisions by the council’s executive committee.
However, the immediate priority is to ensure the market meets basic health and infrastructure standards.
“This market is a hub for all kinds of people expatriates, locals, and vendors alike and we risk losing our major customers if conditions remain unhygienic.
“Improving this market will help create a better environment for trade and community interaction,” he said.
HCC urges all vendors and residents to support the relocation process and to utilize the White River Fish Market as the new designated venue for fish sales.
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