KATHMANDU: The law enforcement authorities have finally brought a section of unscrupulous petrol pump owners in the capital to book for duping the consumers with unflinching regularity.

The move comes almost after three weeks, thanks to an exclusive report in The

Himalayan Times on June 15 about the malpractices perpetrated by them.

According to Department of Commerce (DoC), Puja Kothi Petrol Pump at Gongabu, New Lama Enterprises at Jorpati, Sita Trade Centre at Kalimati and Jaya Ganesh Petrol Pump at Thankot were meted out punishment in line with Standard Weights and Measures Act-1968.

The action was taken by Regional Office of Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology as per the recommendation of DoC. “An investigation into the case cleared the way to take action against the proprietors of these four gas stations,” confirmed a senior official at DoC, preferring anonymity. According to the DoC officials, Puja Kothi Petrol Pump is the worst offender, dishing out more than 70 ml less petrol in every 5 litres.

While, Sita Trade Centre and Jaya Ganesh Petrol Pump came a close second. New Lama Enterprises, too, made a fast buck.

A fine, ranging between Rs 2,000 and 4,000, and a warning have have been slapped against the owners. The checks were conducted between June 25 and 28.