Bengal Rolls Out Fines For Spitting, Littering And Public Urination

KOLKATA- West Bengal has introduced a system of financial penalties in urban areas to discourage spitting, littering and public urination, with the new rules coming into force on September 1.

West Bengal Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul had earlier said there would be no extension of the deadline, as extensive awareness drives had already been conducted across urban areas.

The state government has been carrying out measures to keep West Bengal clean, with Paul herself taking part in awareness drives. She has been seen cleaning streets with a broom and distributing dustbins as part of the campaign.

“The message of awareness has been conveyed throughout July and August, with the minister herself leading the drive being in the forefront. However, from September, anyone who would resort to spitting, littering and urinating in public will be fined,” an officer of the West Bengal Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Department said.

The new regulation applies to all municipal corporations, municipalities and notified areas in the state. District magistrates have been sent notifications to ensure strict implementation of the rules.

The catchline of the regulation is: ‘Do not litter. Do not spit in public places, streets, hospitals, etc. Keep Bengal clean.’

The state administration has said there will be close monitoring of roads, sewers, water bodies, markets, hospitals, educational institutions, religious places and government buildings.

A fine of Rs 100 has been fixed for spitting in public, while public urination will attract a penalty of Rs 200. Littering and carrying banned plastic carriers will also attract a Rs 200 penalty.

The penalties will not be collected in cash. Payments will have to be made through digital modes.

The state is also strictly enforcing a ban on single-use plastic items below 120 microns for both sellers and buyers. Shop owners have also been barred from piling up garbage outside their establishments on public roads. (IANS)