Biratnagar Airport eateries fined Rs 1.2 million for overcharging customers

Biratnagar – Four hotels, restaurants, and cafes inside Biratnagar Airport have been fined a total of Rs 1.2 million for charging consumers more than the marked retail price.

The action was taken after these businesses were found to be exploiting consumers during a surprise market inspection led by the District Administration Office, Morang, on Tuesday evening.

The inspection team included representatives from the Commerce, Supplies and Consumer Protection Office Biratnagar, Consumer Welfare Protection Forum Nepal Koshi Province, and the Ward Police Office.

According to Sarojraj Koirala, Assistant Chief District Officer, the surprise inspection was conducted following complaints that the airport hotels were overcharging passengers.

During the inspection, all four hotels and restaurants were found to be charging consumers more than the regulated amount, resulting in a fine of Rs 300,000 each, totaling Rs 1.2 million.

It was discovered that ‘Mamta Hotel’, operating in the airport’s boarding area, sold a chocolate marked at Rs 100 for Rs 200.

Similarly, ‘Galaxy Cafe and Hotel’ in the airport canteen was found billing Rs 160 for a Coca-Cola bottle priced at Rs 50.

Likewise, ‘Garima Cafe’, operating within the airport premises, sold a Rs 50 Coca-Cola for Rs 80, and ‘Anukul Hotel and Bhanchha Ghar’ sold a chocolate marked at Rs 8 for Rs 17.69, as found by the inspection team.

Chief District Officer Yubaraj Kattel clarified that those who overcharge consumers, engage in fraud, and conduct business against the law will be brought within the legal framework.

He also emphasized the need for consumers to be aware and not pay more than the marked price on goods to avoid such exploitation.