Authorities in the Olympic city of Athens have reportedly launched a strict anti-litter campaign in the run-up to the summer Games, with strict fines for anyone who disobeys them.
Tourists as well as locals face fines of £14 for dropping cigarette butts or chewing gum; according to The Guardian, the rules will be enforced by a newly-created 600-strong team of multi-lingual police officers.
The city’s mayor is quoted as saying that the team was put together with the Olympic Games, which will be held in the city from 13 to 29 August, in mind.
She reportedly said: “These measures will affect everybody, be they foreign or Greek. We are determined to keep our city clean. Studies show that a resounding 78 per cent of Athenians agree with these regulations. What that shows is that they want to live in a city that is clean.”
Report by Tim Gillett, News From Abroad
