BBMP to increase penalty for failure to maintain clean premises

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BENGALURU, Karnataka: The Health Department of the state has suggested the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) levy a fine of Rs 500 on property owners who fail to keep their premises clean, given the rising cases of dengue in the cities.

According to the current regulations aimed at preventing and controlling mosquito breeding, as well as eradicating malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases, municipal corporations such as BBMP have the authority to levy a maximum penalty of only Rs 50 on property owners responsible for creating conditions favorable for mosquito breeding

During a meeting led by Dinesh Gundu Rao, Health Minister of Karnataka, the decision to raise the fine from Rs 50 to Rs 500 was made.

Rao expressed concerns that the current fine is insufficient, and such a minimal penalty may lead to people not taking the matter seriously. “A request has been made to the civic bodies to raise the penalty and issue the order soon,” Rao stated.

BBMP officials have confirmed the proposal to increase the fine, and they have also assured that multiple teams have been mobilised to visit approximately 14 lakh households in the city to raise awareness about dengue. They mentioned that higher penalties would also motivate people to be more vigilant, as these measures are crucial for their safety.