Smoke from the Vunato dump in Lautoka, which has consistently impacted the city’s air quality, may soon see an improvement with the launch of a feasibility study for a new landfill site. Lautoka City Council CEO Mohammed Khan confirmed that the council is working alongside the Ministry of Local Government to develop a project akin to the successful Naboro Landfill concept.
The Vunato dump currently manages an average of 75.5 tonnes of waste daily, totaling approximately 40,330 tonnes annually. Minister Maciu Nalumisa underscored the importance of addressing the growing waste issue for the sake of environmental health. Additionally, plans are underway to rehabilitate existing dumps in neighboring areas such as Sigatoka, Ba, and Rakiraki.
In handling potential landfill fires, the response strategy includes isolating the impacted zones to contain flames and using heavy machinery to create fire breaks. This approach is essential, especially given the Vunato dump’s previous difficulties in managing fire incidents effectively.
Efforts in Lautoka correspond to wider discussions about the challenges faced by landfill sites throughout Fiji, as highlighted in recent discussions. There is an urgent need for sustainable waste disposal methods as existing sites continue to reach their capacity. Supported by international collaborations, such as those with the Asian Development Bank, Minister Nalumisa’s initiatives aim to enhance waste management infrastructure and promote sustainable practices within local communities.
A key aspect of this initiative is to encourage waste segregation and recycling, thereby reducing the volume of waste that ends up in landfills. This progressive approach aligns with the development of enhanced waste management strategies, fostering healthier environments and sustainability for future generations.
There is a sense of hope in Lautoka and throughout Fiji that these measures will lead to a more effective waste disposal system, representing a crucial advancement in overcoming long-standing waste management challenges and promoting environmental sustainability.
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