THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has announced a reward for those who provide information about those who throw garbage in public places and water bodies. The reward will be 25% of the fine levied on litterers or a maximum of Rs 2500. Local Department Additional Chief Secretary Sharada Muralidharan issued the order.

The information should be given to the secretaries of the local bodies along with the picture or video of waste dumping. The specific WhatsApp number and e-mail for this will be announced by the respective local bodies soon. The names of informants will be kept confidential.

Once the information is forwarded, a decision should be made within seven days. The reward should be transferred online to the informant's account within 30 days after fines are collected from the litterers. The register in this regard should be kept separately by the local bodies. The concerned officers shall inspect the register once in three months and submit a report to the Principal Director.

This is a part of the 'Malinyamukta Nava Keralam' activities being carried out in the state following the fire at the Kochi Brahmapuram waste plant premises. Four years ago, a circular was issued for giving similar rewards, but it was not implemented.

Penalty and reward

A minimum fine of Rs 250 is imposed for littering in public places. The fine will be from Rs 5,000 to 50,000 rupees for dumping waste in water bodies. If the fine is Rs 1000, then Rs 250 will be given as reward and if Rs 50,000 is charged, the maximum reward will be Rs 2500.

Police can nab litterers

Police force will also be included in the enforcement teams of local bodies to prevent dumping of garbage. The DGP issued an order in this regard. The Enforcement Squad is empowered to seize and confiscate vehicles. Police will assist in arrest and legal action.