London: Paan chewing is a common habit in South Asia, particularly in India. Paan stains are also common in most places in India. Now, the London town administration has revealed that it is facing the severe mess of pan spits and hard stains in public spaces there. The London authorities informed that they are spending £30,000 (around 35 lakh Indian rupees) to clear pan stains every year, according to reports.
The Brent Council website shared the figures suggesting that it is a large-scale mess and how it damages the appearance of public spaces.
Brent Council shared a video of workers cleaning the paan stains.
A voice-over in the video says, “We have had enough of people staining our streets with paan. There are more enforcement officers on Brent streets to catch those responsible, as well as a massive clean-up operation to get rid of the hideous stain. From smoother commutes to greener parks and safer streets, we are investing millions of pounds in the everyday things that matter most to you. Wherever you live, you will see and feel the difference.”
The administration added a warning as a caption to the video.
It reads, “Paan spitting £30k clean-up bill sparks crackdown. Paan chewing and spitting causes serious health issues. The stains cost the council over £30,000 to clean up each year. Enforcement officers are taking a zero-tolerance approach to those caught ruining Brent's streets with paan, those caught will be fined £100. The council runs one-to-one support where residents can get support on quitting paan and smoking.”