The Hpa-an Township General Administration Department has issued a local order imposing a fine of 50,000 kyats on anyone caught illegally disposing of waste at Mount Zwegabin, a prominent tourist attraction and symbol of Kayin State. The order, issued on June 23, is aimed at preserving the area's natural environment and improving cleanliness.

The measure forms part of broader efforts by the Kayin State Government to keep Hpa-an, the state capital, and its tourist destinations clean and well maintained. According to the order, the number of domestic and international visitors to Kayin State has been increasing every year, attracted by the state's scenic mountains, forests and natural landscapes.

As one of the state's most popular tourist sites, Mount Zwegabin receives large numbers of visitors throughout the year. To improve waste management, officials and relevant organizations will install garbage bins and bags along the mountain's ascent and descent routes while implementing a systematic waste collection and disposal program. Visitors are required to dispose of their waste only at designated locations and refrain from littering.

Under the order, anyone found illegally dumping waste will be fined 50,000 kyats. Half of the fine will be awarded to the individual who reports and helps identify the offender, while the remaining amount will be deposited into the Destination Management Organization (DMO) Fund. The order also states that those who fail to comply may face legal action under Section 188 of the Penal Code and other applicable laws.

Meanwhile, local residents, social organizations and youth volunteers have been conducting cleanup activities along the Mount Zwegabin hiking trails, mountain slopes and ravines since June 13.

During the current rainy season, Mount Zwegabin, Mount Taung Wine, and popular cave destinations including Saddan Cave, Kaw Ka Thaung Cave, Kawgun Cave and Yathae Pyan Cave continue to attract large numbers of domestic and foreign tourists.