It has been almost two weeks since garbage collectors suspended their services to the city and there are now over 200 mini-dumps throughout the city as persons seek to deal with their garbage pile-up.
According to a press release from the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) its Solid Waste Management Department had reported on the mini-dumps which are unacceptable. It added that these sites have existed even before the collectors suspended services. Last year, the release said, the council was forced to expend $1 million to pick up parapet waste.
The M&CC is appealing to persons to desist from dumping refuse on parapets and other spaces since this could harm the health of the environment and the community.
The release added that this practice contributes to the proliferation of mosquitoes, flies, rodents and other vectors. Currently, the M&CC says the City Engineer and Solid Waste Management Department have teamed up to provide collection service to areas such as Alberttown, parts of Albouystown and Charlestown.
Particular focus remains on cleaning central commercial areas of the city and the markets, the abattoir and the hospital. The team has slated a number of other sections for collection service within the next few days.
“The council is asking citizens to assist in wherever way they can. Council is aware that this negative situation is posing a serious inconvenience and discomfort…it is doing the best it can in very daunting circumstances,” the release said.
The council is also advising against burning and is urging persons to bury their garbage.
The M&CC owed $75 million to the garbage collectors and has so far paid $12 million since the collectors suspended their service on June 21. “The council is woefully short on money, equipment and personnel to provide even the core services to the citizens,” yesterday’s release said.