Chewing paan and gutka has become an unexpectedly expensive problem in London, and as of Nov 28, 2025 with councils now spending over Rs 35 lakh every year to clean up red stains across public spaces. Reported by Nikhil Pandey from NDTV.
What is a common sight in many South Asian countries has now become a growing concern abroad as the habit crosses borders.
According to a report by NDTV, a North London council spends over 30,000 pounds (Rs 35 lakh) annually on cleaning shops, pavements, and buildings stained with dark-red chewing tobacco residue—typically linked to members of the South Asian community.
The issue is especially widespread in parts of Brent, including Wembley, where the blood-red mix of saliva and tobacco can be seen splattered on pavements, telephone boxes, and even flower beds.
Brent Council has announced a strict crackdown, taking what it calls a "zero-tolerance approach" to the persistent problem.
The council says the habit not only causes "serious health and environmental damage" but also incurs a heavy financial burden. Officials added that “even high-powered cleaning jets” often fail to remove the stubborn stains.
As part of the enforcement drive, the council has installed banners across three major hotspots where paan spitting is “a big problem.” Enforcement officers will patrol these areas, and offenders could face fines of up to 100 pounds (Rs 12,000).
Cllr Krupa Sheth, Cabinet Member for Public Realm and Enforcement, stated, "I am delighted that we continue to take a zero-tolerance approach to those who ruin our streets, that includes those that spit out paan and stain street furniture. Don't mess with Brent, because we will catch you and fine you."
Despite the increased efforts, authorities admit that the stains are so deeply ingrained that they cannot be fully cleaned—leaving London to battle a problem imported along with cultural habits from overseas.
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