Selwa Nandan, a Lautoka resident, has expressed his concerns over what he perceives as an unfair increase in refuse collection fees. In a letter to The Fiji Times, Nandan revealed that the fee has risen dramatically from $40 to $68, representing a staggering 70 percent hike.
“This seems like an overcharge,” he stated, questioning the justification for such a steep increase. He pointed out that generally, service fees should correspond to the actual costs incurred. Nandan also recalled that ratepayers are entitled to two complimentary clean-up services each year, which he considers insufficient. He believes it is ethically wrong to impose such high fees when residents are already paying city rates for these services. He warned that this financial burden could lead to an increase in illegal dumping and burning of waste, further harming the environment and degrading the cleanliness of Lautoka.
In response, Lautoka City Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan clarified that the fees are directly related to the costs charged by contractors hired for refuse collection. According to him, the last tender issued in 2021 was for $42.45, and the new tender after its expiry has set the rate at $58.10 for garden refuse, disputing Nandan’s claim of a $68 fee. Khan emphasized that the council does not profit from these charges; the total amount paid by residents goes directly to contractors for service delivery.
Khan also noted that the fee in question pertains to refuse collection, a separate service from regular household garbage collection, with the latter being covered by current rates that include bi-weekly pickups for residential areas. He directed residents to the council’s website for more detailed information on refuse collection fees, encouraging them to use the official services instead of resorting to illegal disposal methods.
This situation highlights the necessitated balance between service costs and community expectations, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication between local councils and residents to avoid misunderstandings. A constructive approach may lead to better solutions for waste management that can satisfy both the council’s need to cover costs while ensuring residents feel that services are adequately priced.
In summary, while Nandan’s concerns reflect a significant public sentiment regarding rising fees, it’s essential to understand the underlying costs and services associated with waste management. By fostering open dialogue, the community and council can work together towards sustainable waste solutions that benefit Lautoka as a whole.
Leave a comment