Male' City Council on Tuesday said they will fine anyone who litters on the streets starting Friday.

City Council said the public will be advised against littering the first time, but repetitive littering a second time will result in a MVR 200 fine, and MVR 400 fine for the third offence. Consequently, the fourth time onwards will concur a MVR 500 fine each time.

City Council said the decision was made in accordance to the Decentralisation Act to ensure everyone follows the social norms and to keep Male' City a clean and safe environment.

City Council further said they are within their rights to fine people for littering as per the 'Male' City Community Monitoring Security Service' guidelines as well.

"Although City Council has put up signage to identify spaces people cannot litter in, it has not put a stop to the issue of littering in public spaces. As such, City Council will be working together with Police Constabulary officers to identify people who litter and impose a fine starting 20 January," City Council said.

City Council said that people who are fined for littering will only receive further services from the Council once they clear their fines.