Special Price Magistrate and Tehsildar Chaudhry Shafqat Mahmood inspects shops in Fateh Jang’s main bazaar, fines violators and warns traders against overcharging.

FATEH JANG (Bureau Report): Special Price Magistrate and Tehsildar Fateh Jang Chaudhry Shafqat Mahmood conducted a surprise price inspection in the town’s main bazaar, imposing fines on shopkeepers found charging more than government-prescribed rates.

The inspection was carried out as the local administration stepped up efforts to curb overpricing and provide relief to consumers facing rising prices. Mahmood was accompanied by the Para Force and other members of his team during the visit.

According to the report, the team inspected prices at various vegetable, fruit, meat and grocery shops to check whether traders were following the official price lists.

Several shopkeepers were fined on the spot for charging customers above the prescribed rates, while others received warnings and were directed to comply with the government-issued price lists in the future.

During the inspection, Mahmood instructed traders to display the official price list prominently at their shops so customers could easily check the approved rates before making purchases.

He also warned shopkeepers against charging excessive prices and engaging in profiteering, making it clear that violations would result in strict legal action.

The surprise inspection reportedly caused concern among traders in the market as the price magistrate and his team checked compliance with official rates across different businesses.

The administration’s action comes amid public concerns over high prices and the need for effective monitoring of essential commodities. Regular inspections and enforcement of official price lists are important measures to help protect consumers from being overcharged.

Meanwhile, local residents and representatives of social circles praised Tehsildar Chaudhry Shafqat Mahmood for the action against overpricing. They called for such inspections to continue daily to ensure that shopkeepers follow government-prescribed rates and consumers receive relief.

The residents also stressed the importance of sustained monitoring to discourage profiteering and improve compliance with official pricing regulations in Fateh Jang.