Winter chill sends people flocking to fish market

Trade generates Rs1 billion during season despite price hikes

LAHORE:

The fish market in provincial capital has become a hub of activity with the arrival of cooler weather.

Wholesalers have stocked a wide range of fish, including river, farmed, pond, and sea varieties, drawing in crowds eager to purchase both raw and fried fish.

Experts emphasise the health benefits of fish, which is rich in calcium and effective in combating the effects of smog, prompting many to visit the market for their preferred selections.

Lahore's sprawling fish market boasts over 200 wholesale shops catering to residents and shopkeepers from the city and surrounding districts.

Popular fish varieties such as Singhara, Rohu, Sewal Khagga, Mehli, and local Chiriya are available.

Market insiders report that the fish trade generates around Rs1 billion during the season, with a single truckload of farmed fish costing approximately Rs2 million before being sold at a profit.

River fish is particularly sought after, commanding higher prices compared to sea and farmed fish.

The spike in demand is linked to the worsening air pollution in Punjab, which has led to an increase in throat and eye irritations among residents. Fish consumption is seen as a natural remedy to mitigate these health impacts, fuelling the market's current boom.

Despite a notable rise in fish prices this season, buyers continue to purchase a range of options. Local river fish is popular for home-cooked meals and soups, while Rohu and other spiced, fried fish coated in gram flour remain customer favourites.

Prices for raw fish in the market range from Rs550 to Rs2,000, with farmed Rohu starting at Rs550 and river Sewal fetching up to Rs2,000. Fried fish coated in gram flour is priced at approximately Rs2,500, while spiced fried fish without gram flour costs around Rs2,200.

Fish heads, a more economical option, are also in demand for their flavour and use in soups and home-cooked dishes.

The market's popularity peaks from afternoon until late at night as smog-weary residents seek nourishment and relief through their fish purchases.