The South Delhi Mayor today directed SDMC officials for a complete ban on burning of leaves, garbage and other types of waste in the municipal area, warning that anyone doing so will be strictly punished as per law besides being slapped with a hefty fine.
"Garbage and leaves are burnt in residential colonies, streets and parks which harm the environment," said Mayor Subhash Arya, as he directed the civic agency officials to ensure a ban on this practice in compliance with court orders.
Despite the court orders to this effect, the situation has not changed and it is time to act tough against those burning leaves and garbage, he said.
"Anyone, whether municipal corporation staff or any other persons, found burning leaves and garbage will face strict legal action and pay huge fine," he added.
Appealing to the citizen and social organisations to cooperate in the efforts to bring down pollution levels in the city, he also urged them to lodge complaints against those causing environmental pollution.
In a high-level meeting of Delhi government chaired by the Chief Minister, on December 10, a decision was taken to strictly implement the National Green Tribunal's order to slap fine of Rs 5,000 against concerned officials including park in-charges, if burning of leaves and garbage was detected in their areas.
Burning of garbage and leaves have been found to be a major source of air pollution in the city.
