A vendor operating on the ‘Meenagaya’ train has been fined Rs. 100,000 by the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court yesterday (April 28) after being found guilty of selling bottled drinking water above the stipulated Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
The case involved a 1000 ml (1 litre) water bottle being sold for Rs. 160, violating the stipulated MRP of Rs. 100.
The case was filed after an undercover officer of the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA), was sold an overpriced water bottle.
The court, taking into account the violation of consumer protection regulations, had imposed the fine after concluding that the vendor had unfairly exploited commuters by exceeding the regulated price ceiling.
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Dambulla eatery fined over expired water
Meanwhile, a restaurant in Dambulla has also been fined Rs. 510,000 by the Dambulla Magistrate’s Court for selling expired bottled water above the MRP.
The fine was imposed today (April 29, 2026) after a raid carried out by the CAA’s Matale District Office.
It was revealed that the bottles had expired on March 15, 2026. Regardless, they had been sold at Rs. 120, violating the stipulated MRP of Rs. 80.
Officials emphasise that selling expired food or beverages and charging above the marked price are violations of consumer protection laws and consumers are also urged to remain vigilant.