Market Checking Drive Intensified in Mankote Ahead of Eid; Authorities Fine Defaulters

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

ALTAF HUSSAIN 

MANKOTE, MAY 23:- In view of the upcoming Eid celebrations and the expected rise in market activity, the Tehsil Administration Mankote on Saturday launched a comprehensive market inspection drive across the area to ensure availability of quality commodities and to curb unfair trade practices.

The drive was carried out on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Poonch under the supervision of Naib Tehsildar Mankote Mohd Iqbal and Tehsil Supply Officer Mankote Ayaz Ahmed, with assistance from officials of Police Post Mankote.

During the inspection, teams visited several commercial establishments including grocery stores, vegetable vendors, chicken and mutton outlets, and maize seed shops operating in the local market. Authorities inspected rate lists, quality of goods, stock registers, hygiene conditions, and compliance with government-mandated regulations.

Officials particularly focused on ensuring that traders had displayed updated rate lists prominently and were not charging customers beyond the approved rates. The administration stated that strict vigilance is necessary during Eid as consumer demand for essential commodities generally increases during the festive season.

During the checking process, some shopkeepers were found violating prescribed norms and failing to follow official instructions. Consequently, the authorities imposed fines amounting to Rs 2,100 on the violators.

The inspection team also interacted with members of the trading community and urged them to maintain transparency, follow ethical business practices, and provide quality products to consumers. Traders were directed to strictly adhere to government guidelines and avoid overpricing or hoarding of essential items.

Officials warned that any future violations would invite strict legal action and reiterated that market inspection drives will continue in the coming days to safeguard consumer interests and maintain proper market discipline during Eid preparations.
The Tehsil Administration reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fair trade practices and hassle-free availability of essential commodities for the general public across the Mankote area.