Fahad al Ghadani -
Muscat Sept 20 -
Despite the numerous clean campaigns across the country, the public places, especially beaches, continue to be littered. Many, unable to tolerate this “irresponsible behaviour”, have called upon authorities concerned to impose hefty fines on litterbugs.
“Pictures of public places being littered on social media platforms every day shows how some people continue to throw rules to the wind,” said Ammar al Salhi, a resident of Muscat. Despite the clean campaigns, many behave irresponsibly and litter our beaches, he said.
The Observer had earlier carried an article in which some had called for wardens to be deployed at popular beachfronts for handing out fines on litterbugs. Others had mooted the idea of installing CCTV cameras to keep an eye on them. Many concerned citizens have taken to social media to vent their ire at those sullying the nation’s pristine beaches.
The ministerial decision No 55/2017 issued by the Muscat Municipality determines penalties for violating orders. Throwing litter on streets, wadis or fenced walls can result in penalties, including a fine, of up to RO 1,000. The law says penalties will be doubled for a repeat offence.
In a strong message to the commercial establishments, the authority had said the waste should be disposed of only at designated places.
Last January, the Public Prosecution tweeted that throwing trash out of a moving vehicle is a crime punishable by law.
Ali al Hatmi, who has participated in several cleaning campaigns, says: “Ugly scenes at beaches kill our motivation even as we are keen on inspiring others.”
He said the authorities should impose stiff penalties, including jail terms, for littering.
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