In a significant move to combat the pervasive issue of littering in public spaces, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has implemented a substantial increase in fines, now amounting to Rs 500, for those found guilty of discarding trash on the streets. The decision, approved in a meeting chaired by PMC’s top official, Vikram Kumar, is aimed at curbing the persistent problem of littering across the city.
Effective immediately, the revised penalty comes as a response to the continued challenges faced by the PMC’s solid waste management department. Despite the existing fine of Rs 180 for offenses like littering, spitting, or failure to sort trash, the city continued to grapple with the issue. The increased fine is seen as a deterrent to discourage individuals from engaging in this undesirable behavior.
Sandeep Kadam, the head of the waste department, expressed optimism that the higher penalty would compel individuals to think twice before littering. However, some skeptics argue that a marginal increase may not be sufficient to bring about a significant change in public behavior. They advocate for more substantial changes to foster a cleaner city.
The PMC, however, remains resolute in its commitment to fostering a culture of cleanliness and believes that the increased fine will serve as a deterrent to discourage littering in public spaces.
