BMC Increases Fine for Open Waste Burning to Combat Pollution

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to increase fines for burning waste out in the open from Rs 100 to Rs 1,000, starting April 1. This measure aims to address air pollution and health issues. Ward-level squads will be deployed to oversee compliance with the ban.

In a bid to tackle air pollution and health concerns, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a significant increase in fines for open waste burning. Starting April 1, violators will face a penalty of Rs 1,000, a steep rise from the current Rs 100 fine.

To ensure compliance, the civic body has formed squads at the ward level tasked with preventing instances of waste burning across the city. The decision comes after multiple reports of such activities were observed, prompting the BMC to adopt a stricter stance.

The low amount of the previous penalty hindered effective enforcement of the waste burning ban, leading to the decision to implement a more substantial fine. The new regulation is expected to serve as a deterrent against the practice and help reduce harmful emissions affecting Mumbai's air quality.

(With inputs from agencies.)