Punjab Announces Massive Fine for Spitting and Littering in Public

The Punjab government has introduced a new bill proposing tough penalties for damaging heritage sites and illegal construction within protected areas.

Under the draft law, the scope of the Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority will be extended from Lahore to the entire province. The bill empowers the authority to declare any building as dangerous and act against unauthorised construction or encroachments.

Violators may face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to Rs. 2 million. The bill also includes penalties for damaging public property and littering at historical locations. Individuals found spitting or throwing garbage in public or heritage zones could be fined up to Rs. 10,000.

The Chief Minister will head the authority, with the Chief Secretary as vice-chairperson. The proposed law has been forwarded to the relevant assembly committee for review and is expected to be finalised in two months before being presented for voting.

The legislation aims to preserve Punjab’s historic landmarks and ensure public spaces are respected and maintained.