KATHMANDU: The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection has imposed a total fine of Rs 600,000 on two businesses for overcharging consumers and engaging in collusion. Acting on reports of black marketing and market irregularities, the department fined a retail shop and an auto gas refilling station Rs 300,000 each.
According to the department, Anil Kirana Shop in Chakhadol, Kageshwari Manohara Municipality-6, was found selling gas cylinders for up to Rs 2,600, significantly exceeding government-regulated prices. Following a consumer complaint, officials inspected the site and discovered the shop was using transportation costs as a pretext to overcharge customers. The shop was fined Rs 300,000 for these practices.
Separately, a gas pump in Balkumari, Lalitpur, was fined Rs 300,000 for non-transparent operations. The facility was found to be withholding gas supplies from tempos and microbuses, instead distributing fuel only to preferred individuals. The pump failed to maintain official sales records, leading to the penalty. The shop was fined yesterday, while the pump was penalized a few days earlier.
Anil Kirati, an information officer at the department, stated that authorities will continue to take legal action against any business engaging in unfair trade practices, creating artificial shortages, or causing hardship to the public. The department has intensified monitoring efforts across the Kathmandu Valley and is encouraging consumers to report any instances of fraud or irregularities immediately.
