CSMC Launches Strict Drive Against Illegal Activities, Recovers Rs 12 Lakh In Fines

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation (CSMC) has launched a strict drive against residents who are defacing the city. Punitive action has been taken against residents for dumping garbage in open spaces, parking on roads, using plastic bags, and 52 other illegal activities. A fine of Rs 12 lakh has been recovered from residents so far.

The drive, implemented in the city under the guidance of administrator and municipal commissioner G Srikanth and deputy commissioner (solid waste) Vijay Patil since March 1, includes a squad visiting every shop to search for banned plastic bags.

From March 1 to 17, action was taken against 73 traders for using banned plastic, with Rs 69,000 in fines collected and around 926 kgs of plastic seized. Similarly, Rs 1.88 lakh in fines was recovered from 23 residents for dumping construction material on roads and open spaces. Action was also taken against 147 residents for throwing garbage on roads, with Rs 62,650 in fines collected. In total, 156 residents paid Rs 6,24,000 in fines for parking their four-wheelers on roads and obstructing traffic. Twelve hawkers were fined Rs 24,000 for parking handcarts on roads and obstructing traffic. A fine of Rs 15,000 was imposed for misuse of water, Rs 82,000 for 41 hoardings, and Rs 2,17,000 for placing 217 small banners on dividers. Two residents were fined Rs 12,000 for cutting trees without permission. In total, fines amounting to Rs 12,25,650 have been collected as of March 17.