To tackle illegal dumping, the Goa government will now impose strict penalties on individuals found littering in public or private areas. The fines will range from ₹200 for first-time offenders to as much as ₹3 lakh for repeated violations. This comes as part of an amendment to the Goa Non-Biodegradable Garbage (Control) Act, 1996, which was approved by the state cabinet on Tuesday. The bill is expected to be introduced during the ongoing session of the state assembly.

The proposed law aims to ban the dumping of waste in open spaces and water bodies, while ensuring proper waste collection and disposal. It also gives the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) the authority to digitally monitor non-biodegradable waste generated by industries. Also, vehicles used in illegal waste dumping may be seized under the new rules.

A new section added to the original Act clearly states that no biodegradable or non-biodegradable waste should be thrown into drains, rivers, ponds, lakes, sewers, or land areas where it can contaminate soil, pollute water sources, or disrupt sewage systems. Such actions could pose health risks, cause public nuisance, or interfere with water flow and waste treatment systems.

The bill further requires that garbage must be disposed of only in designated garbage bins or locations marked by local authorities. Property owners, tenants, manufacturers, importers, and brand owners will be held responsible for ensuring that non-biodegradable waste from their premises is collected and placed in proper receptacles or handed over to authorised waste management agencies.

Also, bulk waste generators, recyclers, collectors, and co-processors must register on the GSPCB’s online platform and get official approval as per procedures outlined in government notifications.