The Punjab government will launch a strict anti-littering crackdown from January 1, 2026. Authorities aim to improve public health, protect the environment, and keep cities clean. The new rules impose heavy fines and jail terms for garbage burning and illegal dumping.
Burning garbage will attract fines of up to Rs500,000 and imprisonment of up to three years. Burning tires carries the harshest penalties, including fines up to Rs500,000 and jail terms up to seven years. Other littering violations will see fines ranging from Rs10,000 to Rs50,000, depending on severity.
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Throwing garbage outside houses, shops, or factories will result in a Rs25,000 fine. Dumping waste into drains carries a Rs10,000 penalty, while animal waste disposal violations are punishable by Rs50,000. Authorities stressed that punishments will be strictly enforced, with no exceptions.
To ensure compliance, the Punjab Authority for Suthra Punjab has formed dedicated enforcement teams. These teams will monitor streets, neighbourhoods, commercial areas, and industrial zones throughout the province. Officials said active operations will begin as soon as the rules take effect.
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The government urged citizens to adopt responsible waste disposal practices. Authorities emphasized that cooperation from the public is crucial to make the crackdown effective. Violators will face strict penalties to ensure cleaner, healthier communities across Punjab.