London: Chewing paan and gutkha in public and spitting it is a common practice in the streets of South Asia. But now this bad habit is crossing the borders and creating problems in Britain also. Because of this habit, UK is facing a big problem. According to a report in the 'Evening Standard', North London council spends more than 30,000 pounds (about Rs 35 lakh) every year to clean the dark red stains of chewing tobacco associated with the South Asian community from shops, sidewalks and buildings. Betel chewing is very common, especially in the Brent areas around Wembley. Here dark red spots are often seen on footpaths, telephone boxes and even in pots.

Harm to health and environment

Brent Council has made it clear that this problem is causing serious harm to health and the environment and is resulting in huge clean-up costs, so they will adopt a zero-tolerance approach against it. Despite best efforts, it is often impossible to completely remove these stains from the roads. Local officials say even high-powered water jet machines cannot remove some stains.

To tackle the problem, Brent Council has put up banners at three hotspots where betel spitting is a major problem. Enforcement officers will also patrol the area. Those who do so will be fined up to 100 pounds (about Rs 12,000). Councilor Kripa Sheth said, "I am glad that we are taking a zero-tolerance approach against those who destroy our roads and litter by spitting paan. Don't mess with Brent, because we will catch you and fine you."