Everest Mart Fined Rs 200,000 for Overcharging on Cooking Gas

Kathmandu. The Department of Commerce, Supplies, and Consumer Protection has fined Everest Mart Store located in Thahiti, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-17, Rs 200,000 for selling cooking gas at a higher price than the fixed rate.

The department took action against the store after it was found to be charging consumers more than the fixed price during a site inspection. According to the department, the store was found to be violating the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, and was subsequently fined Rs 200,000.

The department has also directed Gristma Enterprises, which trades in gas, to present necessary documents related to its business within three days. The department has asked the firm to submit details of its cooking gas purchases and sales from Shrawan 1 to date, along with distribution records and bills.

During the inspection, weaknesses were also found in other business firms, and corrective instructions were given, the department said. The department stated that regular market monitoring is being carried out in the presence of local consumer rights activists and stakeholders.

Due to the recent problems in the supply and distribution of cooking gas and complaints of overcharging from consumers, the department has made market monitoring and inspection more effective. According to the department, necessary instructions, corrective orders, and legal action will be taken in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act, 2075, and the Consumer Protection Regulations, 2076, during market monitoring.