The Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court has imposed a fine of Rs. 500,000 on a railway catering service after it was found guilty of selling bottled drinking water above the Government‑prescribed Maximum Retail Price (MRP) aboard the Kankesanthurai–Colombo train.

The case was filed by Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) district investigation officers following a special raid in Anuradhapura on July 9, 2026. During the inspection, officers discovered that a 1000 ml bottle of water, marked at Rs. 120, was being sold for Rs. 150 inside the train canteen.

Upon considering the evidence, the Magistrate ruled that the establishment had violated Direction No. 96 issued under the Consumer Affairs Authority Act and imposed the penalty.

The CAA has formally notified the Sri Lanka Railways Department about the sale of goods at excessive prices in train canteens. Officials confirmed that the same establishment had previously faced legal action for similar violations and has now been strictly warned to comply fully with consumer protection laws.

The Authority emphasized that while it seeks to guide traders through awareness and instruction, it will not hesitate to take strict legal action against any trader or establishment that disregards regulations.

Passengers are urged to report traders selling goods above the prescribed Maximum Retail Price aboard trains or elsewhere via the CAA hotline 1977. (Newswire/ AI image)

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