The Lautoka City Council has confirmed the potential for recurrent fires at the Vunato dump site, with plans being developed to address this pressing issue. Taitusi Rasoki, chair of the council’s special administrators, highlighted that comprehensive consultations with stakeholders are essential to finalize the necessary measures.
The council is considering implementing a ban on waste picking by the Collection Pillars of Recycling, citing that the practice has increasingly complicated their efforts to manage the site. Rasoki noted that entry to the dump will be restricted to authorized personnel and approved waste users, with trespassers subject to police action.
Efforts to control the ongoing fires at the landfill require significant resources, including two water trucks constantly in operation, two pumps to extract water from nearby canals, and a dedicated team of workers on long shifts. The council has taken proactive steps to manage the smoke generated by these fires, acknowledging the community’s concerns and frustrations regarding air quality.
Rasoki pointed out that dry and windy weather conditions, along with unauthorized access to the landfill, continue to exacerbate the problem. He indicated that efforts to utilize seawater for firefighting are limited during low tide, which sometimes forces reliance solely on freshwater trucks.
Past incidents at the Vunato site have drawn attention to the importance of sustainable waste management practices in Lautoka. Investigations have indicated that some fires may be intentionally set by individuals seeking scrap metal. The council is coordinating with local security and police to tackle these illegal activities. Furthermore, concerns have been raised by residents regarding health issues stemming from the smoke, emphasizing the urgent need for improved practices at the facility.
As discussions about sustainable waste management strategies intensify, there is a collective hope within the community that future initiatives will lead to innovative solutions, reinforcing environmental health and safety in Lautoka.
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