The Ganesh Peth Fish Market, Pune’s largest, has experienced a significant increase in both supplies and prices following the conclusion of the fasting season in December. While fishermen and sellers acknowledge that fasting affects sales, they also point to various other influencing factors.Rehan Shaikh, a 37-year-old fisherman and seller, reported that daily sales typically range from 70% to 86%, but post-fasting, they can reach 80% to 94%. He explained, “The prices of deep-sea fish have risen partly due to the fasting period when many people avoid non-vegetarian food. Catching deep-sea fish requires patience and expertise, as we must locate specific, calm areas in the ocean. Fishing in these zones can be dangerous due to other marine life.
”Shaikh detailed the pricing of various fish: Pomfret is priced at ₹670-850 for large, ₹920-1,200 for medium, and ₹780-1,030 for small sizes. Bombay Duck (Bombil) costs ₹580-760 for medium and ₹600-980 for large. Prawns range from ₹160-200 for small to ₹820-1,260 for jumbo sizes. Lobsters are priced between ₹1,240-2,400, while river fish like Rohu ranges from ₹180-240 and Tilapia from ₹60-140.With consistent seafood demand, sellers receive 50 tonnes of deep-sea fish, 900 kg of creek fish, and 3.9 tonnes of river fish daily. Established in 2012, the market sources fish from Goa, Kerala, Konkan, Andhra Pradesh, and beyond, with Andhra Pradesh contributing 46 tonnes of popular varieties.Suraj Singh, a veteran seller, noted that many fishermen also observe fasting, reducing the fresh fish supply while demand remains steady or increases. He pointed out that rising fuel costs for fishing boats and weather challenges further impact fishing activity and market prices.
Additionally, Gulifar David, another seasoned seller, highlighted transportation and sustainability challenges. He stated, “Transporting fish incurs considerable costs, and during this season, catching mature fish while avoiding juveniles requires skill. Fresh sales heavily depend on the quality of the catch.”Prices for deep-sea fish like Pomfret and prawns now range from ₹1,630 to ₹2,890 per kilogram, while Bombay Duck sells for ₹280-490. Farmed Pomfret is available at ₹480, and Indian Mackerel (Bangda) ranges from ₹800-1,500. Other notable prices include Black Pomfret (Halwa) at ₹400-950 and King Mackerel (Surmayi) between ₹500-1,500.
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