The Centenary Farmer’s Market (CFM) in Thimphu will reopen from Wednesday. The Prime Minister’s Office informed this through their Facebook page today. However, only one-third of the total capacity will be allowed to operate. There are close to 500 cubicles. The market was closed to the public since last month citing the risk of spreading COVID-19.
Disgruntled and frustrated with the government’s decision to close the CFM, some vegetable vendors gathered outside the CFM this morning. They began to sell their goods at the parking space unwilling to go to the multi-level car parks where they are supposed to sell today.
“Today, we are left with no other option than to opt for such a measure. When we are asked to sell vegetable in the building which has been built for parking cars, it does not go well with us. We the vegetable vendors here are mostly women and have already faced many difficulties in our lives,” said Singay Dem, a Vegetable vendor, in Thimphu.
“Despite government informing us that we are not allowed to sell our goods here, we have all come together and decided to sell our vegetables here today,” said Namgay Bidha, also Vegetable vendor.
“I got the Kalabazar area during the lucky dip. I think it will be only animals who will consume my goods as there is no good market up there. Likewise, it is also the same case in other designated areas. Some of our friends are told to sell our goods at the attics of the buildings where we have no other option than to wait for customers all day. It was much better in the CFM,” added Nim Dem.
“I received a call yesterday at around 10 PM asking whether we will come to sell our goods at the Multi-Level Car Park today. I said I will not come as there is no good business up there. Moreover, I have to bring my children along with me and it is not safe for them up there,” said Yangka Bidha.
The group dispersed only after knowing that one-third of the cubicles will open from Wednesday. However, CFM management and vendors have been asked to form groups and make necessary arrangements. However, the Agriculture Minister said the allotment system will be clear on Monday.
Meanwhile, the two multi-level car parks remained empty. Vendors are not willing to use it. Thimphu Thromde has almost finished refurbishing the area with counters for vendors to sell their vegetables and other goods.
“As per the government’s directives, we are doing our best by coming up with various initiatives to help the farmers but we do not know what the public is thinking of it. We have not received the required support from the farmers and vendors but it is not that we only need the support from them only. We have many people who are in need of space to run their businesses. Moreover, many youths are coming forward to do various businesses,” said Kinlay Dorjee, the Thimphu Thrompon.
For now, construction of six mini-vegetable markets is underway in Taba, Jungshina, Norzin Lam, Lungtenphu, Chang Gidaphu and Babesa.
Passang Dorji
