Regulations imposing stiff fines on littering and urinating in public spaces took effect almost nine months ago, yet it has not changed people’s habit.

Though the government issues fines for littering and urinating in public places, it does not deter people from violating the regulation 

Authorities have highly-optimistic hopes of shaping public awareness over littering and urinating in public spaces after a new regulation took effect four months ago. Yet it seems the fines failed to deter people from littering bugs

Those littering in public spaces, including pavements, streets or sewage systems in residential areas, especially in large cities will be fined VND3 million (US$133) to VND7 million ($313).

As per the government decree, those who throw cigarette butts and ash in no-smoking areas, including shopping malls and residential areas will face fines between VND500,000 ($22) and VND1 million ($44 ) and those who urinate in public spaces and others crowded like shopping malls, pavements and parks will also be fined between VND1 million ($44) and VND3 million ($133).

Experts said the fines can deter people from committing violation. Yet the implementation of the decree is difficult because of paperwork. Moreover, shortage of public dustbins is barrier for the issue.

However, authorities should be determined to carry out it because it help keep the street tidy and nurture good habits for citizens. Moreover, it can save billions annually in big cities like Ho Chi Minh City which spends hundreds of billions on cleaning street and collecting waste in canals.

Accordingly, HCMC is installing cameras to residential blocks to supervise the littering to gear for a civilized city of the country.

SGGP