The much-awaited Muttrah Fish, Fruits and Vegetables Market was formally opened on Tuesday, offering fish, fruits vegetables under one roof. The new market consists of 136 fish selling platforms on an area of 1,410 square metres, 36 cutting platforms, 48 platforms for selling vegetables and fruits, and eight meat and poultry shops. It has been provided with the latest equipment, providing a high degree of food safety in accordance with the International Food Safety Code (HACCP) guidelines.
“The implementation of the project is part of the municipality’s vision to create new infrastructure projects that serve the people,” a senior official at Muscat Municipality said in a statement.
Besides providing employment to former market workers, the market will provide opportunities to many new vendors, fishermen and vegetable traders.To serve visitors better, 140 parking spaces have been provided around the market complex.
“We considered replacing the old market with a state-of-the-art new complex to attract more tourists to experience Oman’s authentic marine tradition,” he added.
The Muscat Municipality has ensured a unique visitor experience is provided in an iconic building while maintaining the functionality required by fishermen and fish processors.
The new edifice, constructed on an area of 2,200 square metres, boasts of a curved shape and textured concrete structural walls, a beautiful, swirling aluminium and steel canopy.
It includes areas for fish processing and sale, vegetable market, meat market, cafe and a restaurant. Additionally, it will have fish landing, refrigeration, preparation, packaging and restaurant facilities.
Snohetta, a globally renowned Norwegian company, has designed the project. BuroHappold, an international multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy, is responsible for mechanical and electrical engineering, structural engineering, civil engineering and facade engineering.
“The importance of the new market stems from its strategic position at the beginning of the vibrant maritime route in Muttrah, close to the Sultan Qaboos tourist port, the waterfront project and Muttrah traditional market. All of these can enhance the new market and make it a tourist and cultural spot,” he added.
KABEER YOUSUF
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