The Punjab government has finalized preparations for a province-wide crackdown on littering, introducing strict fines and prison sentences that will come into force from January 1.
Officials have declared a zero-tolerance policy against burning garbage or dumping waste in public places, warning that violators will face heavy financial penalties and imprisonment under the new enforcement framework.
Fines and Jail for Garbage Burning
According to official details:
-
Burning garbage will result in a fine of up to Rs. 500,000 and imprisonment of up to three years
-
Burning tires carries even stricter punishment, including a Rs. 500,000 fine and jail terms of up to seven years
Overall, the punishment framework allows:
-
Fines ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 500,000
-
Imprisonment between three and seven years, depending on the severity of the offense
Fines for Littering and Waste Dumping
The government has also notified specific fines for different types of littering:
-
Throwing garbage outside homes, shops, or factories: Rs. 25,000
-
Dumping waste into streets or neighborhood drains: Rs. 10,000
-
Throwing animal waste or remains: Rs. 50,000
Authorities say these penalties are aimed at discouraging careless waste disposal and improving cleanliness across urban and rural areas.
Monitoring Teams to Ensure Enforcement
To implement the new rules, the Punjab Authority for Suthra Punjab has formed special monitoring teams. These teams will patrol:
-
Residential areas
-
Commercial zones
-
Industrial areas
-
Streets and public spaces
Officials say strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the new cleanliness laws.
Govt Urges Public Cooperation
Provincial authorities have described the initiative as a major cleanliness and environmental protection drive, urging citizens to cooperate by following proper waste disposal practices.
The government emphasized that public participation is essential to improving environmental health, air quality, and urban cleanliness across Punjab.
