Littering masks can result in a fine of up to 7 million VND.
The Ministry of Health has proposed that ministries and branches impose a fine of 3-7 million VND on people who throw away or dispose of used masks in the wrong place.
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 14.
According to the Ministry of Health, in order to limit the spread of acute respiratory infections caused by Covid-19, the World Health Organization and the Vietnamese Ministry of Health have recommended that people apply preventive measures, including the use and disposal of masks after use in the right place. However, there is currently a situation where people throw away masks indiscriminately, causing the risk of environmental pollution and spreading the disease.
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| Masks are distributed for free in crowded areas at Hanoi Railway Station. Photo: Giang Huy. |
The act of littering masks in public places such as streets, sidewalks, drainage systems... can be fined from 3 to 7 million VND, according to the provisions of Article 20, Decree 155 of 2016 on administrative sanctions for violations in the field of environmental protection.
Localities need to arrange enough waste bins with tight lids in public places, and increase inspections and penalties for the act of throwing or disposing of masks in places not prescribed by law, the ministry proposed.
