Scientific Fruit Ripening Facility to Come Up at Mapusa Market in North Goa
20 June 2025, New Delhi: In a significant move to ensure safe and hygienic fruit ripening practices in North Goa, the state’s Agriculture Department has initiated the construction of a modern ripening chamber with a capacity of 60 tonnes at the Mapusa market yard.
Addressing Unscientific Ripening Practices
The need for this facility arose after officials observed unhygienic and unsafe ripening methods being used by fruit vendors, particularly for bananas. Harmful chemicals and substandard practices prompted a series of inspections and raids by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), highlighting the urgent requirement for a scientifically managed ripening chamber.
Sandeep Fol Dessai, Director of Agriculture, stressed the importance of such infrastructure across all talukas. “Fruits need to be ripened through safe, scientific methods. Each taluka should have its own ripening chamber,” he noted during a recent inspection.
Capacity Suited for Local Demand
The proposed chamber in Mapusa is being designed with four separate compartments to cater to varying quantities and ripening schedules. On a regular day, the market handles about 8 to 10 tonnes of bananas, which can increase to 15 tonnes during peak festive seasons.
In response to this consistent demand, the Goa Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing Board has already floated e-tenders, and construction work is currently underway.
Investment and Support
The total estimated cost of the project is ₹2 crore. Of this, 35% will be funded by the central government, while the remaining amount will be covered by the state government. The investment underscores the authorities’ intent to modernise post-harvest infrastructure and ensure food safety.
Call for Upgrading the Mapusa Sub Yard Market
Meanwhile, traders and wholesalers operating at the Mapusa Sub Yard Market have demanded broader modernisation of the decades-old facility. Originally set up over 40 years ago, the market now suffers from outdated structures and a lack of essential amenities.
Spanning approximately 21,000 square metres, the sub yard accommodates more than 100 traders dealing in fruits, vegetables, coconuts, and related produce. Alongside them are a large number of independent vendors.
Stepped-Up Surveillance
To address the broader issue of food safety, the FDA has intensified its monitoring efforts. In recent months, the agency has conducted close to 80 inspections across Goa, covering over 350 fruit and vegetable establishments.
Also Read: India’s Agricultural Sector on Track to Triple: McKinsey Highlights $3.1 Trillion Potential by 2047
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