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The Department of Environmental Supervision to Strengthen Waste Incineration Controls During Chiakokonoba
On the Wednesday before the Glorious Easter Holiday, the traditional ritual of “Chiakokonoba” takes place. During this ritual, residents use various types of municipal waste to light fires. The burning of such waste releases toxic and carcinogenic substances and gases, which pose serious risks to the environment and public health. This practice is particularly hazardous to the health of children, who actively participate in the traditional ritual.
Over the years, due to strengthened controls and awareness campaigns by the Environmental Protection and Agriculture authorities, the number of violations during „Chiakokonoba“ Night has decreased, particularly in major cities. Nevertheless, this tradition continues in certain regions. Accordingly, the Department of Environmental Supervision warns the public that, under the Waste Management Code, the open burning of any type of waste - including tires, plastic materials, and leaves - is strictly prohibited.
According to the Waste Management Code, the open burning of municipal non-hazardous waste - such as leaves, garden or park waste, and household refuse - will result in a fine of 500 GEL. In the case of open burning of tires, rubber, or other elastomeric materials, the violator will be subject to a fine of 1,500 GEL.
The Department of Environmental Supervision will strengthen controls during “Chiakokonoba Night” and take appropriate action against each violation.
Crews of the Department of Environmental Supervision conduct 24-hour nationwide patrols to promptly prevent, detect, and address environmental violations. Immediate action is taken in response to every report received via the Ministry’s hotline (153).
