South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has decided to penalise the vacant plot owners in colonies, whose plots are being used for garbage dumping. The Corporation will enforce a fine between ₹500 to ₹5,000 to such plot owners. The standing committee has undertaken this initiative to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. The agency has noted that people buy cheaper land in unauthorized colonies and keep it vacant for long, which becomes a convenient dumping site for nearby residents, causing spread of diseases in that area.
The proposal was approved by the Environment Committee of the Corporation, citing serious health hazards and Corporation’s duty to maintain sanitation and cleanliness in the area under its jurisdiction. NDMC will issue a public notification followed by identification of such plots and subsequent penalty to the owners.