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Canal Pollution Fines: No More Spiritual Excuses
3 Feb
Summary
- Mandatory Rs5,000 fine for illegal dumping in Sidhwan Canal.
- Priests and astrologers' advice no longer accepted as excuses.
- Over 1,500 fines issued last year for canal pollution.
Ludhiana authorities have relaunched a robust campaign to combat illegal dumping into the Sidhwan Canal. A mandatory Rs5,000 fine is now in effect for anyone caught discarding waste. Officials have deployed specialized teams to patrol the canal banks within the city limits following a recent escalation in pollution incidents.
The municipal corporation is strictly prohibiting the use of 'spiritual excuses' to evade penalties. Many offenders previously cited advice from priests or astrologers for issues like personal or marital problems. Despite previous meetings with local astrologers, officials confirmed that strict fines are the only effective deterrent.
The initiative, which initially stemmed from a November 2022 petition to the National Green Tribunal, saw over 1,500 fines issued last year. Enforcement activities had paused during recent byelections but have now fully resumed. Assistant municipal commissioner Jasdev Singh Sekhon emphasized that leniency has ended, urging residents to comply or face penalties.
While enforcement has faced public resentment, officials maintain the campaign's necessity to prevent the canal from becoming a refuse site. The MC first initiated cleanliness efforts at major canal bridges in January 2023, highlighting the ongoing commitment to preserving this vital water body.
