24/06/2026
Pls be aware.
The West Bengal government has announced a new cleanliness regime, with the first phase set to begin in the Darjeeling Hills from July 1.
The Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department has issued a notification banning public urination, open defecation, littering, spitting, and the use of banned plastic carry bags across urban local bodies in the state.
Under the phased implementation plan, the rules will initially be enforced in Darjeeling Municipality, Kalimpong Municipality, Kurseong Municipality, and the Mirik Notified Area Authority from July 1.
The second phase will cover all remaining municipal corporations, municipalities, and notified area authorities across West Bengal from September 1.
State Urban Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul recently stressed the need to launch the drive in the Darjeeling Hills ahead of the rest of the state, citing the growing tourist influx and concerns over cleanliness in the region.
According to the notification, open defecation or urination outside designated toilets and restrooms will attract a fine of ₹200. Littering, illegal dumping of waste, and carrying banned plastic carry bags will also result in a ₹200 penalty. Spitting in public places, including hospitals, educational institutions, religious sites, markets, and other public premises, will invite a fine of ₹100.
The government has also prohibited the collection of fines in cash. All penalties must be collected through digital or online modes by authorised officials of the concerned municipality, municipal corporation, or notified area authority. The collected amount will be deposited into the appropriate government account following prescribed financial procedures.
Appealing to citizens, the state government urged residents to use designated toilet and waste disposal facilities and help keep their cities clean and healthy.
Image Credits: North Point Academy, Darjeeling
