Ella eatery fined Rs. 260,000 for overpricing water and selling expired goods

An eatery in the tourist destination of Ella has been fined Rs. 260,000 by the Bandarawela Magistrate’s Court following a prosecution by the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA). The legal action stemmed from an investigation in the Badulla District that uncovered multiple consumer protection violations.

Inspectors found the establishment was selling 1-litre bottled water for Rs. 200, which exceeds the mandated Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of Rs. 120. Additionally, the raid revealed six 400 ml soda bottles that had expired on September 29, 2026, being displayed for sale. The CAA noted that displaying expired food and beverages is a legal offense that poses public health risks.

The defendant entered a guilty plea to all charges. Authorities emphasized that operating costs do not justify exceeding price-controlled limits and warned that such practices in key tourist hubs can damage the reputation of Sri Lanka’s broader tourism sector.