Suva City commuters are expressing a strong need for a shift in mindset to address the persistent issue of littering in the area. Local residents emphasize that the careless disposal of waste reflects a lack of civic responsibility, urging the public to take shared ownership of their surroundings. They stress that keeping the city clean is not solely the responsibility of municipal authorities, but a collective duty.
Kalevu Tukana, a 71-year-old resident of Suva, pointed out that although authorities are making efforts to maintain cleanliness, the public’s cooperation is lacking. He noted, “There are litter bins provided everywhere, but people seem to be ignoring them. People just have to change their mentality. Only then will we be able to keep our town and environment clean.”
Echoing this sentiment, Tavaita Koroirara, 39, called on the community to take pride in their towns and cities. She recounted a disturbing incident where she witnessed a man discarding a juice bottle into a creek instead of using a nearby rubbish bin. “If people don’t change their mindset, our environment will always be dirty,” she said.
Koroirara believes that strict enforcement of littering laws is essential, advocating for fines for those caught littering in public places. “Only then will we be able to maintain a clean environment,” she asserted.
The appeal from these commuters highlights a crucial aspect of community engagement in environmental preservation. It serves as a reminder that civic duty begins with individual actions, and fostering a culture of responsibility is vital for the betterment of public spaces. With a concerted effort from both the authorities and the public, there is potential for Suva to become a cleaner and more pleasant place for all citizens.
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