In view of the rampant swine flu pandemic in the city, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) announced a hike in its fine for spitting in public from present Rs 25 to Rs 1000 with effect from Saturday.

An order issued by PMC commissioner Mahesh Zagde said that the measure was taken because the H1N1 virus can "remain alive in sputum for eight to nine hours".

The nuisance detection squads of civic administration are expected to take action against the offender.

The commissioner issued the order using special powers vested in him under Bombay Provincial Municipal Corporation Act to deal with epidemics.

The virus has so far claimed 61 lives in the city since August 3 with unceasing number of fresh positive cases being reported daily.