Understanding Food Miles & Local Markets

 – Saurav Dhakal –

Every Tuesday, I visit the Bhanimandal Farmers Market in Lalitpur, one of many pop-up markets, locally known as haat bazaars that have become popular in Kathmandu’s urban neighbourhoods. These markets connect buyers directly with producers, fostering a sense of community and supporting local economies. While this concept might be relatively new to Kathmandu’s urban corners, it has long existed in rural communities and small cities where farmers and small business owners gather in designated spaces on specific days to sell their products.

Understanding Haat Bazaars
A haat is a marketplace where goods produced in the local area, or tol, are sold. It provides a platform for small-scale producers to sell their produce, grains, fruits, and other goods directly to consumers without the interference of the middle person. This direct selling approach is particularly beneficial for farmers who produce goods in small quantities, as it allows them to reach consumers directly without the need for large-scale market access or the burdens of mass production.

The Necessity of Haat Bazaars Today
Some might question the relevance of haat bazaars in the modern age, but they are not only possible but necessary. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of local markets when long-distance transportation of goods became challenging. In many villages, people survived by sharing locally produced goods, demonstrating the resilience of these traditional markets.

Haat bazaars are crucial for local economies, allowing even those with modest skills to sell their products. Unlike supermarkets that often favour large-scale production, haat bazaars provide an outlet for handcrafted items and small-scale agricultural produce. They foster economic inclusivity, enabling producers to earn a livelihood through direct sales. This model also prevents the exploitation common in larger markets, where producers might be paid only after significant delays.

Promoting Local Economies and Culture
Haat bazaars are not just about buying and selling goods; they are about creating emotional connections between sellers and buyers, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting community well-being. These markets should be preserved and promoted even in urban areas, as abandoning them in favour of supermarkets would concentrate economic power among a few wealthy individuals, depriving small-scale producers of their livelihoods.
For instance, at the Bhanimandal Haat, a sister sells freshly made sel roti, attracting people who come specifically to enjoy this local delicacy. The joy and cultural richness found in haat bazaars cannot be replicated in supermarket aisles.

Reducing Food Miles and Environmental Impact
As the signs of climate change become more apparent, the concept of ‘food miles’ — the distance food travels from production to consumption — has gained importance. Transporting goods over long distances consumes significant energy and resources, contributing to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. By prioritising local produce, we can reduce food miles, lower the carbon footprint, and support local economies.
Eating locally grown food means fresher, more nutritious produce, and reduced environmental impact. It supports local farmers, reduces the need for extensive packaging and storage, and cuts down on the energy used for transportation. This practice not only benefits the environment but also strengthens the local economy, providing stability during global economic crises.

Promoting Haat Bazaars in the Modern Context
We can integrate traditional markets into modern urban settings, enhance community engagement, and support local economies. This multifaceted approach not only preserves cultural heritage but also promotes sustainability and economic resilience in our cities.

Urban planners play a pivotal role in integrating haat bazaars into modern city designs. Allocating dedicated spaces for these markets ensures they thrive amidst urban development while preserving their cultural authenticity. This thoughtful integration fosters a harmonious balance between tradition and contemporary urban needs.

Municipalities should develop supportive policies and incentives to facilitate the establishment and sustainable management of haat bazaars. These initiatives promote a diverse urban marketplace where haat bazaars coexist alongside supermarkets, offering consumers choices that reflect both local traditions and modern convenience.

Facilitating microfinance options for small-scale farmers and artisans empowers them to scale their operations and participate more effectively in haat markets. Fair pricing mechanisms further enhance market attractiveness, ensuring equitable transactions that benefit producers and consumers alike.

By championing haat bazaars in urban settings, we not only preserve our cultural heritage but also build resilient communities and sustainable economies. Embracing these markets is not just a choice for today but a pathway towards a healthier, more connected future.

(Saurav Dhakal is founder of storycycle. He can be reached at saurav@storycycle.com)

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