Chandigarh, May 21 -- The Chandigarh administration has warned of penalties for non-segregation, littering and open burning of garbage while widening the definition of "bulk waste generators" under the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2026. The warning was given during the first meeting of the state-level committee on waste management, chaired by chief secretary H Rajesh Prasad, where officials stressed that enforcement would now go hand-in-hand with public participation. A key shift under the new rules is the expanded net for bulk waste generators (BWGs). Apart from those producing over 100 kg of waste daily, entities consuming 40,000 litres or more of water per day or occupying over 20,000 sq m area will also fall under the category. Additionally, gated communities spread over more than5,000 sq m have been mandated to install decentralised waste processing systems. Officials said this move is aimed at bringing large residential societies, institutions and commercial establishments under stricter compliance. The committee also reviewed directions issued by the Supreme Court in recent orders and directed all stakeholders to comply within stipulated timelines. The chief secretary underlined that waste segregation at source-into wet, dry, sanitary and special care waste-remains the cornerstone of scientific waste management. "Cleanliness cannot be achieved by government efforts alone; behavioural change is essential," he said, urging citizens to adopt responsible daily practices. Residents have been asked to hand over only segregated waste to authorised collectors, avoid littering in public spaces and refrain from burning waste. The Chandigarh municipal corporation (MC) has been tasked with a comprehensive mapping of all BWGs, institutions and gated communities to ensure compliance. It has also been directed to strengthen door-to-door collection, processing infrastructure and enforcement, including fines and environmental compensation for violations. Urban local bodies have been asked to ensure 100% collection of segregated waste, prevent dumping and burning, and ramp up public awareness campaigns. Councillors and ward members have been designated as "lead facilitators", who will ensure citizen participation at the grassroots level. They will coordinate with RWAs, market associations and institutions to monitor segregation, address grievances and flag implementation gaps. The deputy commissioner has been assigned a central role in coordinating between departments, conducting regular reviews, removing illegal dumping sites and initiating action against violators. The administration cautioned that violations-including non-segregation, dumping and burning of waste-could invite penalties and legal action....