Srinagar, June 15, KNT: In a crackdown on price manipulation, authorities have imposed hefty fines on five brick kiln owners for selling bricks at rates exceeding the government-approved prices in South Kashmir’s Pulwama and Shopian districts.
According to officials, inspections were carried out in Tahab (Pulwama) and Litter (Shopian) where the violators were caught overcharging consumers and failing to issue proper bills. Each kiln was fined for flouting norms, and a total penalty of Rs 40,000 was collected on the spot.
The government has clearly fixed the rate for ‘A’ Grade (pacca) bricks at Rs 21,000 per 3,000 bricks, inclusive of all taxes, loading, and unloading charges — with transportation being the only additional cost permissible. Any price above this is deemed illegal.
“These brick kiln owners were violating rate regulations and fleecing the customers by not issuing bills,” an official told Kashmir News Trust, confirming that several complaints had prompted the inspection drives.
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The administration has warned all brick kiln operators in the region to adhere strictly to the notified prices and billing procedures. “No brick kiln owner will be allowed to overcharge,” the official emphasized, adding that the government is committed to protecting the interests of consumers.
Authorities have also appealed to the public to report any instances of overpricing or malpractice by brick kiln owners to the concerned departments, assuring prompt action against offenders. [KNT]
