Parking Lot Operator Fined VND7.5 Million for Overcharging Tourists in Cua Lo

Nghệ An Province: Phan Văn Dũng, 41, a parking lot operator in Cửa Lò, has been fined VND7.5 million for charging tourists higher than the posted rates for car parking. On the evening of July 28, the Cửa Lò Town People's Committee issued an administrative penalty decision against Dũng, residing in Hamlet 16, Vinh Phú Ward. In addition to the fine, the violator was also ordered to refund the amount overcharged to the customers. Dũng is the owner of parking lot No. 19 in the Cửa Lò beach tourist area. A few days prior, when tourists drove cars into lot No. 19 for parking, Dũng charged VND30,000 per session, while the publicly displayed price list at the location stipulated a charge of only VND20,000 per session. During his work with the authorities, Dũng admitted his wrongdoing. The Cửa Lò Town authorities stated that in the coming time, they will increase inspections of businesses serving tourists, especially parking lots, restaurants, accommodation facilities, and other services where price violations are prone to occur. Cases of not displaying prices, charging higher than listed prices, or negatively impacting the tourism environment will be strictly handled according to regulations. Cửa Lò Beach, located more than 10 km from the center of the former Vinh City and over 300 km from Hanoi, is a famous destination in the Central region, welcoming millions of domestic and international tourists each summer. The tourist area currently has about 20 parking lots, mainly along Bình Minh Street and adjacent side roads. During peak periods, parking lots in the area are always overloaded. Source: VnExpress