Open defecation: Strict action, challan after Nov 30

LUCKNOW: As part of the efforts to make Lucknow an Open Defecation Free (ODF) city, now the list of houses without toilets will be displayed online, on the nagar nigam and district administration websites.

The move is not to embarrass those who do not have toilets at home. Rather it is meant as a reminder to the officials of the task that lies ahead to make the city ODF.

Nodal officer Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, additional municipal commissioner PK Srivastava said, “Around 420 points would be awarded to the city which is declared ODF in the next Swachh Bharat survey. While there are around 300 houses still without toilets , the owners have been given the time till November 30 to construct them or face heavy fine. Besides that, around 200 community toilets in various areas are being constructed for the residents.”

These toilets cannot charge over Rs 5 for any of the services provided by them.

Meanwhile, municipal commissioner Udairaj Singh has directed the staff concerned to table daily report about progress in the ODF.

He has directed strict action against those defecating or urinating in the open after November 30. Those caught defecating in the open would be issued a challan of Rs 500 .

The drive against polythene will also continue and all big and small shops, even vendors, would be checked regularly.

Municipal commissioner Udairaj Singh said , “By banning polythene, LMC will ensure environment conservation and protection of stray animals which eat polythene and die because of that.”

While there are still around 300 houses without toilets, the owners have been given time till November 30 to construct them or face heavy fine. PK SRIVASTAVA , additional municipal commissioner