Mawaleh market ready for Ramadan

MUSCAT: Preparations for the month of Ramadan are complete for visitors coming to the Mawaleh Central market, officials report.

Muscat Municipality has detailed the completion of preparations for Ramadan at the Mawaleh market, including increased imports, intensified hygiene efforts, and food pesticide level monitoring.

“Various companies, which operate in the market, are in agreement to double direct imports from countries, such as Jordan, Lebanon, Iran, South Africa and Egypt, and increase the number of shipments to the market to meet the needs of the local consumers. The market received 839 truckloads of 16,780 tonnes of vegetables and fruits between May 1 and 14 as is evident in this increase,” the Municipality said.

Government agencies, such as the Royal Oman Police, represented by the General Administration of Customs, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries would overlook farm products in the market. The agencies would also ensure the arrival of goods without delay after inspecting the quality and safety of products.

A Pesticide Residues Analysis Team for vegetables and fruits was formed earlier by representatives of government agencies working in the Central Mawaleh Market.

The team will draw samples of vegetables and fruits from the Central Mawaleh Market periodically for analysis, and pesticide results will be dealt with according to laboratory analysis.

Market management will also continue their efforts to block illegal street vendors in coordination with the Ministry of Manpower.

The Market Administration advises consumers not to deal with these sellers because the goods offered are often damaged due to their direct exposure to sunlight, heat and dust.