a day ago
Reward for reporting waste dumping gets heftier
In a measure aimed at encouraging the public to report instances of waste dumping to the authorities, the Local Self-Government department has removed the clause regarding the maximum amount that can be awarded for those who report such cases with evidence.
As per an order issued by the department on Thursday, those who report such cases will get one-fourth of the fine amount imposed. The government has decided to remove the current maximum limit of ₹2,500.
Minister for Local Self-Governments M.B. Rajesh said in a press release on Friday that with the revised order, those who report serious crimes with evidence will get a higher reward. He directed the local self-government institutions to ensure that everyone who provides information with evidence gets a reward. Haritha Karma Sena members, National Service Scheme volunteers, Student Police Cadets, and college students will also be made part of this monitoring system.
More complaints are being received on the WhatsApp number 9446700800. A special control room has been set up in the Principal Directorate of the LSGD to monitor this properly and take action. So far, 8,674 complaints regarding garbage dumping in public places have been received through the WhatsApp number. Out of this, 5,361 complaints received with accurate information have been accepted. In 4,525 cases, action has been taken, including removing the garbage (84.41%). In 439 cases received with details and evidence of the garbage dumpers, a fine of ₹33.5 lakh has been imposed. Prosecution proceedings have also been initiated against 31 people based on the information received through WhatsApp. The highest number of complaints is reported from Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram districts. The least is in Wayanad district.
Individuals and institutions are currently fined up to ₹5,000 for dumping or burning waste. Those who discharge sewage into public places or waterbodies are liable to a fine of ₹5,000 to ₹50,000. Dumping waste in waterbodies is an offence punishable by a fine of ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 and imprisonment of six months to one year. The penalty for selling banned plastic is a fine of ₹10,000 to ₹50,000. Illegal transportation of waste or septage in vehicles will result in action including confiscation of the vehicle.
