National Directorate of Consumer Rights Protection has fined 120 institutions a total of Tk9,93,200 across 46 districts in drives targeting markets for fruits, edible oil and other essential commodities. Sixty-one teams conducted simultaneous operations at wholesale and retail businesses in those districts, including Dhaka metropolitan area, on Tuesday.
The directorate said the drives were carried out to stabilise prices and keep supply of essential commodities normal, and to prevent overcharging. Inspections covered selling prices, price list display, and the preservation and issuance of purchase and sale vouchers.
Traders were instructed to refrain from creating artificial crises, hoarding unreasonably and obstructing supply. They were also warned to display updated price lists in visible locations and to ensure correct weights and measures.
Fruit traders were directed to sell at fair and reasonable prices. They were told to refrain from mixing rotten or spoiled fruit with good fruit and from using harmful chemicals or unauthorised substances.
The directorate advised consumers to verify price lists and confirm correct weight before buying. It asked them to check the maximum retail price, production and expiry dates where applicable, and to collect receipts or vouchers.
Consumers facing irregularities or fraud in purchases were asked to report to the directorate’s hotline 16121. The directorate said monitoring would continue to ensure market discipline, fair prices and normal supply.
