Mumbai News: BMC Imposes ₹1,000 Fine For Burning Waste In Open Air

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a fine of Rs 1,000 for burning waste in the open. Taking to X on Friday, BMC shared that burning waste and violating this rule will incur a fine of Rs. 1,000, which has been in effect since April 1.

In the post, BMC also mentioned that to enforce this rule, a three-member squad has been deployed in each ward, consisting of junior supervisors, nuisance detector staff, and mukadums.

"Burning waste in open spaces releases toxic gases and harmful particles, which lower air quality and increase the risk of respiratory illnesses. Let’s avoid this for the well-being of our society. A clean and beautiful Mumbai is a shared responsibility," they added.

Meanwhile, BMC has taken a strong stance against illegal construction in the city by imposing a hefty 200 per cent property tax penalty on 3,343 unauthorized properties, amounting to a massive Rs. 392.28 crores. This significant fine is part of the BMC’s ongoing efforts to crack down on violations of construction regulations.

However, despite the high penalty, the recovery rate has been disappointingly low. From April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, the BMC has managed to recover just Rs. 12 crores.

Under Section 152 (A) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888, the BMC is empowered to levy a 200 per cent penalty on property tax for unauthorized constructions, giving the civic body the legal authority to take action and deter property owners from violating city planning norms.

A senior civic official said, "Many times, when the BMC serves notices for unauthorised constructions or alterations, several property owners approach the courts. As the matter goes to court, demolition work cannot be carried out until a ruling is made. However, penalties can still be imposed. Therefore, it was decided to levy a 200 per cent property tax penalty on these property owners, as per report.