By A Staff Reporter
Kathmandu, Sept. 17: After the price of onion skyrocketed in the market over the days, Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies Lekhraj Bhatta Wednesday inspected the Kalimati and Balkhu vegetable markets.
During the inspection, Minister Bhatta directed the concerned authorities to closely watch the market and their activities and take action against those who resort to irregularities in business.
He conducted the surprise inspection at the vegetable markets after the price of onion has doubled just in two days.
“Minister Bhatta discussed with the traders the reason for a sudden price hike of onion in the market even though they are selling the onion which they have in their stock,” said Binaya Shrestha, information officer of Kalimati Fruits and Vegetable Market Development Board (KFVMDB).
He urged the traders to do business legally, otherwise be ready to face government action.
Earlier, the team of Department of Commerce, Supply and Consumer Protection inspected the market on Tuesday and took action against six traders who were selling onion at higher rate than the purchasing price.
Director General of DCSCP Netra Prasad Subedi said that the department had directed the six traders, including three retailers, to present the department with bills within three days.
“We will intensify the market monitoring, including vegetable shops, to control the artificial price hike of commodities,” he said.