Now, wasting water in morning to cost you ₹5,788

Citizens found wasting water in the morning anywhere in Chandigarh and Panchkula will now be slapped with a ₹5,788 fine.

- Jasmeh Kaur and Aarya Kumari

CHANDIGARH:

While the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation has already kick-started its annual drive for water conservation during summer, when the demand for water soars, Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) will also start issuing challans from April 15.

Violators in both cities will invite a fine of ₹5,788 fine in case of first violation. The same fine will be imposed in case of second violation, while the third instance will lead to disconnection of water connection.

Year-long patrols in Chandigarh Going a step further, the Chandigarh MC has decided to extend the drive into a year-long initiative. Traditionally held from April to June, the drive will now continue through the year, with municipal teams all geared up to issue challans to violators.

The move was announced via a public notice by municipal commissioner Amit Kumar on Monday, stating, "Residents should save water not only in summer, but throughout the year. The enforcement drive will now be conducted daily instead of seasonally."