KATHMANDU, Aug 15: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has imposed a fine of Rs 200,000 on Dharahara Tapari Momo after it was found to be violating food hygiene standards. The fine was officially issued on Thursday.
According to a public notice from KMC, the penalty was imposed after a metal ring was found inside momo prepared for sale and distribution during a routine inspection. The food was also found to be below the required quality standards.
Nurnidhi Neupane, head of the Agriculture and Food Department and an inspection officer at the Metropolitan, stated that Dharahara Tapari Momo had repeatedly ignored instructions from the city and failed to maintain food hygiene and quality. He mentioned that eight months ago, a worm was discovered in their momo, for which the business was fined the minimum penalty and given a warning. “Earlier it was a worm, now it’s a ring,” he said, suggesting that poor cleanliness was the reason such inedible items were being found in the food.
Coca-Cola sets Guinness World Record for ‘The Largest Momo Part...
After the ring incident, the maximum fine has now been imposed. Authorities said both complaints had originated from customers, which led the city to investigate and take action. “We hope that with the maximum penalty, the business will now begin to follow food hygiene rules,” the officer added.
As per sections 10, 29, and 30 (1) (b) of the Market Management and Monitoring Act, 2077, the fine of Rs 200,000 was determined.
The business has been instructed to deposit the fine through the bank within seven days. They are also required to report to the Metropolitan office with proof of payment.
The metropolis has emphasized that it will continue monitoring all hotels, restaurants, and any kind of food industries or businesses operating within the city to ensure food hygiene and compliance with standards. Businesses are also being instructed to organize their production and distribution systems accordingly.
