A year and a half after the announcement of fish markets at Ennore and Marina Beach, fishermen are still waiting for the government to fulfil its promise. Following the January 2017 oil spill that wrecked the livelihoods of many fishermen around Chennai, the state fisheries minister had allocated 75 lakh for the construction of fish markets in Ernavoor and Nochi Kuppam to aid members of the community in these areas. However, work is yet to begin, say fishermen. “Despite informing officials several times about the need for markets with water and waste disposal facilities, we have received no help from the department. On weekends, there are at least 300 stalls along Marina Beach. Having a proper fish market would improve sales for us and also give buyers a more hygienic experience,” said K Bharathi, a fisherman. “As there are several visitors to the beach, having a market along the beach where we now sell is more beneficial. We hope the authorities pay heed,” Bharathi added. Officials from the Marina division said an inspection was held recently at Nochi Kuppam to assess the site where the market could come up. “It is likely to be built in place of the temporary shelters at sites 1, 2 and 3 on the other side of the beach road. We have received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Chennai Collectorate to go ahead with the construction. However, the NOC from the corporation is still pending,” said an official. He added fisherfolk are insisting that the market come up along the beach but constructing it there would be a violation of coastal development rules.