The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has imposed a fine of Rs200,000 on Bhatbhateni Supermarket in Tripureshwar for selling substandard products. The Department of Agriculture and Livestock, under KMC, found mold in packaged food items during an inspection prompted by customer complaints.

Dr Awadhesh Jha, an inspection officer from the department, stated that the KMC call centre received complaints alleging the sale of “expired, rotten, and pest-infested food” at the store. Following the inspection, 44 packets of coconuts were found to contain mold, leading to their destruction on Friday and the subsequent fine imposed on the supermarket.

In an official statement, KMC emphasised the importance of adhering to food safety regulations, saying, “The penalty amount must be deposited into the city’s revenue account. Moving forward, ensure that all items sold comply with Nepal’s laws and maintain high-quality standards fit for consumption.”