Sharjah: The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) has issued 300 fines to people who left litter and barbecue waste in public areas, as part of their drive to protect the emirate from environmental damage.
Fines were also issued to people who recklessly and needlessly drove over areas of vegetation or of environmental importance in the desert and mountains. The fine for littering and causing damage to environment is Dh2,000.
The EPAA teams issued tickets in Sharjah after carrying out field trips to local tourist spots, picnic areas and public parks. The team members also educated visitors about the importance of protecting the environment by disposing of their waste appropriately.
Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA chairperson, said, “EPAA teams are leading the drive to ensure a clean environment for all living beings, including many species of indigenous animals who inhabit the area. These campaigns are in the best interest of everyone.”
Al Suwaidi added that issuing fines was not for financial gain but to uphold the law, and to act as a deterrent to those who litter or in any other way harm the environment. Anyone who distorts or damages these areas is committing a harmful act which requires a fine, she said.
