A video of a man disposing of a garbage bag into the Arabian Sea near the infamous Gateway of India has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread criticism and renewed debate over civic responsibility in public spaces.
The incident was recorded by a foreign tourist, who was filming a vlog near the iconic waterfront. He captured the act, and it was recorded in a video where the man is seen driving to the promenade in a car, disposing of a bag of garbage in the sea, and walk away calmly without hesitation. The tourist can be heard questioning the act, but the man does not respond.
It is also significant to note that the male was accompanied by his daughter at the time of the incident. When the video came to an end, the tourist was heard saying, "That’s not good," expressing visible disappointment at what he had witnessed.
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There has been no confirmation on the date the recording was made, but the video began went circulating on the social media platform on Tuesday.
Netizens tag authorities, demand action
The clip has drawn strong online reactions, with many users expressing embarrassment over the incident taking place near one of Mumbai’s most recognisable landmarks and in front of a foreign visitor.
Several social media users tagged the Mumbai Police and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), urging authorities to identify the man and take action under existing anti-littering and environmental protection laws.
One user wrote, “Find him and fine him heavily. Not a token penalty, impose a serious fine.” Another commented, “He has a child with him. This is the behaviour being passed on.”
Others highlighted broader concerns about civic behaviour and enforcement. “Civic sense will not come on its own. Without strict penalties, this will continue,” a user posted, while another suggested schools should place greater emphasis on cleanliness and public responsibility.
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The incident has also reignited discussions around waste management enforcement in Mumbai, particularly in high-footfall tourist areas such as the Gateway of India, which has repeatedly featured in cleanliness-related complaints.
No official response yet
As of Tuesday afternoon, there has not been any official announcement from the Mumbai police or the civic body about this video. Whether the authorities have started any investigation to track down the person in the video has yet to be ascertained.
The area where the Gateway of India monument stands is a regulated coastline area where disposing of trash is illegal.
