The Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) has introduced sweeping new regulations that will significantly impact daily life in the holy city. Under the recently approved Solid Waste Management Bylaws, residents and visitors now face substantial penalties for common public behaviors.
Hefty Fines for Feeding Stray Animals
The most notable change involves strict restrictions on feeding stray animals in public spaces. Anyone caught feeding stray dogs, cows, or other animals on streets, footpaths, or public areas now faces penalties ranging from ₹500 to a staggering ₹1 lakh. This measure aims to address concerns about animal-related litter and public safety.
Cleanliness Crackdown: Littering and Spitting Penalties
The bylaws also target other public nuisance behaviors with immediate financial consequences:
- Littering: ₹200 fine for dropping waste in public places
- Spitting: ₹500 penalty for spitting in public areas
- Improper waste disposal: ₹500 fine for not segregating dry and wet waste
Implementation and Public Response
Municipal Commissioner Himanshu Nagpal confirmed that the penalty structure has been formally approved and will be enforced across Varanasi. The decision has sparked mixed reactions from animal lovers and residents, with many questioning how the feeding ban will be implemented humanely.
These measures represent the city's latest effort to enhance cleanliness and public order in one of India's most important spiritual destinations. The VMC emphasizes that the rules are part of a broader initiative to transform Varanasi's urban landscape while addressing public health concerns.
