Municipal markets in Viti Levu will be open tomorrow as per the normal operating hours.
This was confirmed by the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Local Government Dimity Fifer in a statement today.
Ms Fifer said upon advice from the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), Municipal Councils removed market structures on the roadsides to ensure the safety and security of all during Category 5 Tropical Cyclone Yasa.
“All roadside vendors whose stalls were removed will be accommodated in the markets around the country. Vendors who have had their roadside stall removed can contact their Municipal Council for stalls in the market,” said Ms Fifer.
She said the informal stalls were safety hazards to traffic and pedestrians in normal periods.
“There are empty stalls available in Council market facilities. There are 15 stalls available at Laqere market; 30 at Nausori market and 53 at Vunidogo market in Nakasi. The Suva main market will have 30 spaces available for those whose stalls were removed. Namaka market has 30 stalls available; Nadi market has 50 stalls; Ba has 15 empty stalls, while Lautoka has 50 spaces,” Ms Fifer said.
She also reiterated that vendors and farmers are to sell their produce from proper market facilities.
“Vendors and farmers are to sell their produce from proper market facilities, so that the safety of our people is not compromised. The Councils will strictly follow the by-laws to stop illegal stalls,” said Ms Fifer.
