A business operating a mobile canteen on a train travelling from Kankesanthurai to Colombo has been fined Rs. 500,000 for selling bottled drinking water above the maximum retail price (MRP).
The case was filed before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court by investigation officers of the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) attached to the Anuradhapura District.
The violation was detected during a special inspection carried out in the Anuradhapura area on July 9, 2026. Officers found that a 1,000ml bottle of drinking water, which carried a maximum retail price of Rs. 120, was being sold for Rs. 150.
Legal action was subsequently instituted against the establishment under Order No. 96 issued in terms of the Consumer Affairs Authority Act.
After considering the evidence presented, the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court imposed a fine of Rs. 500,000 on the operator.
The CAA also stated that it has informed Sri Lanka Railways about the sale of goods above the prescribed prices by mobile canteen operators on trains.
According to the Authority, legal action had previously been taken against the same establishment for similar violations of consumer protection laws.
The CAA said it will continue to monitor the establishment and warned that strict legal action will be taken if any further breaches are detected.
