Urban fish markets and landing centres, particularly in cities like Mumbai, handle large volumes of fish and shrimp, resulting in significant challenges related to waste management and persistent odour issues. These odour problems frequently lead to complaints from local residents and citizens’ associations, highlighting the need for effective interventions. In response to the on-going concerns especially at fish landing centres and fish markets like high Sassoon Docks a study was undertaken as part of the ICAR-funded research project titled Swachhta Action Plan and Commercial Utilization of Fish Waste From Urban Fish Markets. The primary objective of the study was to assess stakeholder perceptions of odour in fish markets. Sassoon Dock in Mumbai was selected as the focal site due to the high frequency of odour-related complaints and the efforts by local authorities to identify viable solutions. Through interviews, information was collected from vendors, consumers, nearby residents, and waste handlers. Environmental Perception Model and Health Belief Model were used for the study and the constructs used were sensory perception, behavioural response, environmental impact, perceived susceptibility, severity, barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy enabling to capture sensory perception (odour intensity), emotional response (comfort, disgust), and behavioural outcomes (avoidance, time spent, coping). Each construct had statements which were rated on five-point Likert scale. Data were analysed using normalization and non-parametric statistical tests such as Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney to assess significant inter-group differences. Results indicated that while market workers displayed habituation to odour, residents and consumers showed high sensitivity, particularly in relation to perceived health threats and environmental nuisance. There were statistically significant differences observed across multiple perception dimensions. To address the issue of odour, efforts were made to develop odour adsorbent material. Different materials were tested and air quality was measured using air quality monitor capable of detecting gases commonly emitted from fish decomposition, like ammonia, hydrogen sulphide, sulfur dioxide, total volatile organic compounds and nitrogen dioxide. The study underscores the need of addressing issues of odour in fish markets and landing centres through stakeholder-centred, science-based interventions. The comprehensive approach adopted from perception mapping to lab-based testing offers a model for future interventions.