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The Mumbai High Court expressed its dissatisfaction on Friday regarding the tendency of individuals to discard waste indiscriminately in India, while adhering to regulations abroad by disposing of trash only in designated areas. The bench, comprising Justice G.S. Kulkarni and Justice Aarti Sathe, questioned whether this behavior reflects the true value of freedom and democracy. They emphasized the need for raising awareness among citizens and municipal authorities to ensure that public spaces remain clean and free from litter.

The court remarked, “If a person desires a clean environment, it is their fundamental duty to maintain cleanliness in society. We expect municipal officials to take strict action in this regard.” The High Court was hearing petitions concerning pollution, persistent odors, gas emissions, and health risks faced by residents near the ‘Kanjurmarg dumping site’ in the eastern part of the city. The judges stated, “We must educate our citizens.”

It was noted that individuals carelessly throw trash on the streets here, yet they avoid such behavior when abroad, where even a small chocolate wrapper is disposed of in a bin. The High Court pointed out that the city is facing significant daily threats due to waste being discarded on main roads and alleys, leading to serious health and sanitation issues. The court instructed the municipal body to take appropriate action within a week, warning that it may have to issue orders if necessary.