In a significant move against littering, the West Bengal government is set to impose strict fines from September 1 for throwing plastic waste or garbage on roads.

Agnimitra Paul, Minister for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, has said that a pilot project will be launched on Saturday in 10 municipalities to improve the waste management and cleanliness system, and spread awareness.

“We are focusing on ensuring that civic services are not disrupted in municipalities where councillors have resigned and where administrators are absent. If people take photos upon seeing garbage anywhere and send them, the staff concerned will also be required to take action on it. The project will be inaugurated on May 30.”

The Minister said that cleanliness must be maintained by involving the police, administration, and the general public. Paul added, “When our people go abroad, to malls… they behave like civilised individuals. But upon stepping on to the streets here, they throw away coconut shells, plastic and chip packets. This will not be allowed. Keeping our cities clean is a shared responsibility for all of us. We will give it three months… People must improve their habits during this period. After that, from September 1, fines will be levied in accordance with the existing rules.”

Under the plan, dustbins will be installed at a distance of every 100 meters. Even after this, if anyone throws garbage on the road or in a public place, a fine will be imposed from September 1.

How much fine can be imposed? This may vary across cities, based on the respective municipal corporation. For instance, fines ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 1,000 can be imposed for littering on the road. This amount can also increase up to Rs 5,000, said officials.