Punjab Announces Strict Penalties for Spitting, Littering, and Heritage Site Damage
A new bill has been introduced that proposes severe penalties for damaging historical sites, unauthorized construction, and public littering — including something as simple as spitting.
LAHORE: The Punjab government is taking a bold step to preserve the province’s beauty and heritage. A new bill has been introduced that proposes severe penalties for damaging historical sites, unauthorized construction, and public littering — including something as simple as spitting.
Under this draft law, the authority of the Punjab Walled Cities and Heritage Areas Authority — previously limited to Lahore — will now cover the entire province. This expansion aims to protect valuable heritage across Punjab.
The law empowers officials to declare any building as "dangerous" and take immediate action against illegal constructions and encroachments. Those found guilty of damaging heritage sites or public property could face up to five years in prison along with fines reaching Rs. 2 million.
Interestingly, the bill also cracks down on public behavior at historical locations. Individuals caught spitting or throwing trash in public places or heritage zones could be fined up to Rs. 10,000.
The new framework puts the Chief Minister at the helm of the authority, with the Chief Secretary serving as vice-chairperson. The bill is currently under review by a legislative committee and is expected to be finalized within two months before being presented to the assembly for a vote.
If passed, Punjab could soon become a much cleaner and better-preserved place for both locals and tourists alike.
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