The Mombasa County government is set to introduce a heavy fine on anyone caught polluting the environment.
Speaking in Mombasa on Monday, Environment CeC Tendai Lewa said the county government will charge up to Sh250,000 as fine to deter people from engaging in pollution-generating activities.
Lewa said the county will not review the fines downwards, adding that anyone who will be found guilty will not have a choice but to pay the hefty fines.
He said the move is meant to encourage residents and visitors to throw garbage in designated areas, in order to keep the tourist town clean.
“The County Assembly has already passed a law on heavy fines to be meted on polluters of the environment in the town. If you want to escape the fines, then you must adhere to the new county environmental rules. We are determined to address the garbage and sewage crisis to create a better environment,” said Lewa as quoted by Nation.
In the proposed Finance Bill for 2016/2017, vehicle owners who will be found dumping litter in the streets will be fined Sh250,000.
Motorists or matatu owners whose vehicles emit smoke will be fined Sh200,000 while drivers who play loud music will also pay a similar amount.
Individuals found dumping hazardous waste in the town while those who illegally empty raw sewage into drainage system will each be fined Sh100, 000.