Non-complaince with the new rules for dengue epidemic can cost you rupees 200-2000: Karnataka Government

Recently, Bengaluru has topped the list of dengue-affected people in the latest report by Karnataka Government. The state government has directed its officials to strict actions to control the spread of dengue. Besides, the report has declared dengue as an epidemic after witnessing more than 25,500 cases. To give this effect, the state government amended the Epidemic Diseases Act 2020 to add dengue fever, including its other serious forms, as an epidemic.

What are the amended rules?

According to the new rules, everyone must keep their household localities and commercial establishments clean and free from mosquito-breeding sites. However, upon any type of non-compliance, the authorities can levy the above-mentioned fine.

With a reasonable notice period, the empowered authorities can inspect any property from sunrise to sunset. Besides, they can also issue a notice with the required action to remove the breeding sites within a specified time period.

Who is the empowered authority?

Chief Commissioner of Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike is the empowered authority for areas under his jurisdiction. For other districts in the state, the deputy commissioner will be in charge. They have the power to inspect, levy fines and implement preventive as well as remedial measures.

How much is the fine amount?

A fee of 200 to 2000 rupees will be levied depending upon the level of non-compliance with the amended rules, the property and the area. For instance, non-compliance with the rules in a residential property in a rural area may cost you 200 rupees, while 1000 rupees will be levied for commercial establishments, offices and schools in urban localities.

Details of the fine for non-compliance with the rules include,

• 200 rupees for households in rural areas
• 400 rupees for households in urban areas
• 500 rupees for commercial establishments in rural areas
• 1000 rupees for commercial establishments in urban areas
• 1000 rupees for active and abandoned construction sites in rural areas
• 2000 rupees for active and abandoned construction sites in urban areas

However, this is a serious case for all of us to fight, not just Karnataka. You should comply with the amended rules to keep you and your family happy and healthy.