Discarding face masks indiscriminately can result in a fine of up to 7 million VND.
The Ministry of Health has proposed that ministries and agencies impose fines of 3-7 million VND on individuals who improperly dispose of used face masks.
This document was sent by the Ministry of Health to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, the Ministry of Public Security, and the People's Committees of provinces and cities on the afternoon of February 14th.
According to the Ministry of Health, in order to limit the spread of acute respiratory disease caused by Covid-19, the World Health Organization and the Vietnamese Ministry of Health have recommended that people apply preventive measures, including the proper use and disposal of face masks after use. However, currently, there is a situation where people are discarding face masks indiscriminately, posing a risk of environmental pollution and spreading the disease.
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| Face masks were distributed free of charge in crowded areas at Hanoi train station. Photo: Giang Huy. |
Discarding face masks indiscriminately in public places such as streets, sidewalks, and drainage systems can result in fines ranging from 3 to 7 million VND, according to Article 20 of Decree 155 of 2016 on administrative penalties for violations in the field of environmental protection.
Local authorities need to provide sufficient waste bins with tight-fitting lids in public places and strengthen inspections and penalties for the act of discarding face masks in places not designated for disposal according to the law, the ministry suggested.
