Kamrup-M drive to check price rise

GUWAHATI: The Kamrup (Metro) district administration has launched a toll-free number, 8003453982, for residents who wish to lodge complaints against traders hoarding essential items.
Deputy commissioner M Angamuthu said the number was part of an action plan to curb inflation and added that strict action would be taken against those who violate the Essential Commodities and the Legal Metrology Acts.
The district's food, civil supplies and consumer affairs department said the helpline would aid in controlling illegal activities by retailers.
"We appeal to the people of the city to lodge their complaints by dialling the toll-free number. We will study their grievances and take action accordingly," Angamuthu said.
Earlier, the administration had formed 15 flying squads to monitor the rates of essential items in the Metro area. The teams were formed to bring down prices and control market factors.
"Prices of essential food items are under control now. Compared to May-June, the prices have fallen by three to five per cent," Angamuthu added.
The teams, comprising a magistrate, an inspector of the food and civil supplies department and officials of the Guwahati Municipal Corporation, began their anti-inflation drive from Monday.
Earlier, CM Sarbananda Sonowal had asked the state food, civil supplies and consumer affairs department, along with all deputy commissioners, to check increasing prices. Sonowal had asked the officers to submit the details of each districts.
Residents, however, were unimpressed by the efforts. "Earlier, too, the administration had done similar activities like releasing toll-free numbers. In most cases, the numbers did not work," said Ramesh Nath, a resident of the city.