India, Nov. 16 -- If you thought burning your trash was harmless, think again. Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML) is stepping up enforcement against anyone caught setting garbage on fire, and violators could now face criminal cases.

BSWML CEO Karee Gowda said engineers, marshals, and Junior Health Inspectors will be authorised to file criminal complaints against offenders, said a report by The New Indian Express. Burning waste pollutes the air. Properly segregated garbage is sent to processing plants, where it is safely burned to generate electricity, he said, adding that officials also encourage residents to report anyone burning trash by sharing videos.

This comes after the waste management officials stirred controversy ...