KATHMANDU, Feb 18: The Department of Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection (DoCSCP) collected Rs 8.98 million in cash fines from the Kathmandu Valley-based traders found involved in market anomalies during the first seven months of the current fiscal year.

According to the DoCSCP, it collected the aforementioned amount of revenue from 863 firms during the market monitoring conducted during mid-July 2021 and mid-February 2022. Over the period, the regulatory body cross-checked 1,819 firms in total.

On the charge of carrying out misconduct, the DoCSCP arrested three traders and sealed 12 outlets. Similarly, the department destroyed expired food worth Rs 2.85 million while it directed 823 firms to make necessary improvements in their outlets.

During the review period, the department inspected 106 pharmacies. Of them, 33 were taken action for not abiding by the law.   

The Consumer Protection Act prohibits traders from cheating consumers by engaging in adulteration, giving short measure or surcharging. As per the law, the government authority can impose a cash penalty from Rs 5,000 to Rs 300,000 on the spot.

 
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