KATHMANDU: The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has fined two firms a combined Rs 500,000 during market inspections across Kathmandu Valley.

The department conducted inspections on Tuesday, September 2, at various businesses and industries in Kathmandu, Lalitpur and Bhaktapur.

Oliz Store Pvt Ltd, located in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-3, was fined Rs 200,000 after inspectors found it selling goods above the prescribed price.

The department said another firm was also fined as part of the inspection drive, taking the total penalties imposed to Rs 500,000.

Firms ordered to submit documents

The department has directed several businesses to appear before it within three days with documents related to their operations.

Khana Dot Com, located in Pulchowk, Lalitpur Metropolitan City-4, has been asked to submit registration documents, tax clearance, renewal documents, bank statements of the QR payment account and purchase and sales records.

Kshitij Medical Store in Kirtipur, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-14, has been instructed to appear with business-related documents, sales bills and sample medicines to verify whether the medicines were sold according to their prescribed prices.

Similarly, Bishram Restaurant and Bar in Budhanilkantha Municipality-4 has been asked to submit registration documents, purchase and sales bills, gas dealer certification and records of gas distribution.

Gas suppliers told to ensure smooth distribution

The department also instructed Batt Suppliers in Lokanthali, Madhyapur Thimi Municipality-16, to ensure the smooth supply of cooking gas.

Meanwhile, Sita Gas Store in Chakrapath, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-3, was commended for maintaining smooth gas sales and distribution. The department asked the store to continue the practice.

Businesses told to improve billing and labelling

Watika Traders in Kathmandu Metropolitan City-14 was instructed to issue invoices for all transactions.

Sangij Apparel Studio in Lalitpur Metropolitan City-10 was directed to properly maintain purchase and sales bills and ensure that MRP labels are clearly managed.

New Rissra Sweets in Gatthaghar, Madhyapur Thimi Municipality-3, was instructed to comply with food hygiene and quality standards and conduct transactions only by issuing proper invoices.

Gayatri Spices and Food Products Pvt Ltd in Gamcha, Suryabinayak Municipality-4, was directed to regularly issue invoices and trade only in quality goods.

The department also instructed Gadhimai Oil Mill in Dadhikot, Suryabinayak Municipality-4, to sell and distribute only goods carrying proper labels and MRP stickers. It was also asked to maintain a clear and updated price list at the business premises.

The inspections are part of the department’s ongoing market-monitoring campaign aimed at controlling overpricing, improving billing practices and ensuring compliance with consumer protection and product quality standards.