Panchkula, March 7 -- In a bid to maintain cleanliness, the Panchkula Municipal Corporation (MC) has proposed a Rs.500 fine for pet owners whose dogs are found defecating in open areas.

The proposal, along with other agendas, will be tabled in the budget meeting on March 10.

Mayor Kulbhushan Goyal stated that despite the increasing number of pet dogs in the city, only 70 had been officially registered. A similar penalty was introduced in 2018, imposing fines on pet owners allowing their dogs to poop in public spaces like roads, parks and footpaths. Under the new proposal, the first violation will attract a Rs.500 fine, with increased penalties for repeat offences.

Goyal noted that no fines had been collected since his term began in 202...