Dhabas dish out defiance

Despite a notification issued on April 1 by the Deputy Commissioner of Kangra fixing the retail prices of essential commodities — including meals served by hotels and dhabas — the order remains largely unimplemented across the district. Roadside dhabas, particularly in the Nurpur area, continue to overcharge consumers in blatant violation of the directive issued under the Himachal Pradesh Hoarding and Profiteering Prevention Order, 1977.

An inquiry conducted to assess compliance revealed widespread defiance by dhaba operators along key tourist routes, including the gateway to Kangra valley and connecting roads to tourist hubs in Kangra and Kullu districts. A glaring mismatch between the district administration’s prescribed price list and the actual rates on dhaba menus has been observed.

As per the official order, the rates for commonly consumed meals were fixed as follows: a full vegetarian meal (dal, vegetable, rice/chapati) at Rs 80, dal fry at Rs 60 per plate, peas-paneer at Rs 80, tandoori chapati at Rs 7 and stuffed paratha at Rs 20. However, most dhabas are reportedly charging Rs 120 for a thali, Rs 120 for dal fry, Rs 180 for peas-paneer, Rs 10 for a tandoori chapatti and as much as Rs 60-70 for a stuffed paratha.

“This is just the tip of the iceberg,” a consumer remarked, pointing out the significant disparity between the fixed and charged rates as a clear reflection of administrative apathy. Many consumers feel the annual price fixation is reduced to a mere formality with no follow-through from authorities.

On the other hand, dhaba owners — speaking anonymously — have criticised the price caps, citing fluctuating costs of vegetables, spices and high commercial LPG prices. They argue that it is economically unviable to operate under such rigid price controls and stressed the need for consultation with business owners before enforcing such regulations.

Without proper enforcement and accountability mechanisms, the government’s well-intentioned move to protect consumers from exploitation appears ineffective, leaving tourists and locals alike to bear the brunt of unchecked pricing.