The West Garo Hills District Magistrate has imposed a strict ban on the burning of garbage, as this is in contravention of National Green Tribunal rules and could exacerbate respiratory diseases caused by Covid-19.
Garbage in this context extends to dry leaves, which are also not permitted to be burned in the district.
West Garo Hills has seen a sharp increase in the number of Covid-related fatalities this month and a rise in cases.
The Tura Municipal Board has been directed to collect garbage every morning in all municipal areas and ensure that it is not burnt. Further, all local bodies and development committees are also directed to ensure that open burning of garbage or dry leaves does not take place.
Any person violating the prohibition could face legal repercussions under the Disaster Management Act 2005, Indian Penal Code or other laws.
