KATHMANDU: The Department of Commerce, Supplies, and Consumer Protection has taken action against nine business firms found committing infractions during its regular market monitoring.

During inspections conducted on Wednesday, the department slapped fines and issued directives for necessary improvements to businesses that were found operating in violation of the Consumer Protection Act and other prevailing laws.

According to the department, Town Boys & Girls Hostel, operating in the Lalitpur Metropolitan City area, was fined Rs 50,000 after it was found running without renewing its registration.

Similarly, Blue Fox Restaurant in Jawalakhel was fined Rs 20,000, Shambhala Home Pvt. Ltd. in Boudha, Kathmandu Metropolitan City-6 was fined Rs 10,000, and Cold & Hot Spicy Noodles was fined Rs 5,000.

The department stated that various deficiencies and irregularities were also discovered in five other commercial establishments during the inspection, and they have been directed to make the necessary improvements.

The department added that it has been continuously conducting regular monitoring to curb illicit activities, black marketing, and consumer fraud in the market.