Thiruvananthapuram: In the past year, authorities received 12,265 complaints regarding illegal waste disposal, resulting in fines totaling ₹11.01 crore. Most of these complaints were submitted through the local government department’s dedicated WhatsApp number. Of the 7,912 complaints with evidence, action was taken and legal proceedings were initiated in 63 cases.

Thiruvananthapuram (2,100) and Ernakulam (2,028) districts recorded the highest number of violations, while Wayanad had the fewest with just 155 complaints.

A total of ₹1,29,750 was awarded as rewards to those who reported the violations. The WhatsApp complaint system (9446700800) has completed one year. Initially, whistleblowers received ₹2,500; later, the reward was set at one-fourth of the fines imposed.

Fines for illegal waste disposal range from ₹5,000 for individuals or organisations dumping or burning waste, up to ₹50,000 for discharging wastewater in public areas or water bodies. Dumping waste, debris or effluents into water bodies can result in fines from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 and imprisonment from six months to one year. Selling prohibited plastics carries fines between ₹10,000 and ₹50,000. Whistleblowers reporting such violations are eligible for rewards.

‘Continue vigilance against waste disposal’

To ensure effective waste management, public awareness and monitoring are essential. Minister M B Rajesh commended citizens who showed civic responsibility, Information Kerala Mission and Swachhata Mission for setting up the WhatsApp reporting system, and officials who acted on the complaints. He urged the public to remain vigilant.