GUWAHATI, May 5 - In view of the rise in prices of essential commodities during recent days and complaints about overcharging and hoarding by unscrupulous elements, the Kamrup Metro district administration today said that it has initiated a drive across the city to ensure that items of daily need are available in the market at official rates.
In an official statement, the administration said that ten teams of officials have started carrying out checks in city markets, both retail and wholesale.
Last night officials lodged an FIR against Sanju Agarwala, a businessman based in the Beltola locality, after it was found that he was flouting norms regarding display of notice board stating the availability of products and their prices, besides inability to show valid trade licence and cash memo.
The administration said that more stern action will be taken against traders if they fail to adhere to basic rules. It said that though adequate quantities of essential items are available in the market, many unscrupulous elements have indulged in hoarding and thus created artificial scarcity and price rise.
It added that licences of traders who fail to follow the norms laid down under Assam Trade Articles Order 1982 will be cancelled.
The administration has also started a helpline � 03612733052 � where people can lodge complaints and suggestions on the matter.
Meanwhile, the Kamrup Metro Deputy Commissioner has also directed Additional DC Muktanath Saikia to look into the matter of prevalence of syndicates in the Gorchuk wholesale market and submit a report within seven days.
