Ibri fish market operational in early 2018

Muscat, July 16 - The Ibri fish market, considered an important project in Al Dhahira Governorate, will be operational within the first quarter of 2018, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. The ministry, which is working to set up new fish markets in all wilayats as per its national strategy, said that 55 per cent of construction work has been completed so far on the Ibri fish market. To be constructed at a total cost of RO 600,000, the market is located in the city’s downtown, near the fruits and vegetable market. It is expected to create many job opportunities for Omani citizens in fisheries and related businesses. Yahiya bin Khalfan al Hadidi, Head of the Fish Marketing Regulatory Department, said there are currently 59 fish markets across the Sultanate. The market will come up on a 3,000-square metre plot, with a built-up area of 1,530 square metres. It is backed by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) as part of its social responsibility. “It will boost social and commercial movement besides providing modern, organised and convenient outlets for sale of fish. The market is equipped with state-of-the-art air-conditioning system, 16 modern display tables, six stores, stores for cooling and storing fish, ice manufacturing unit with a capacity of five tonnes a day, administration offices and parking lots for 50 vehicles,” said Al Hadidi. Zainab al Nassri