Pacific Harbour’s Beaches in Crisis: Residents Demand Action Against Litterbugs

Residents of Pacific Harbour are expressing their dissatisfaction over the increasingly littered state of the beachfront, particularly noticeable after the holiday season. Rohini Latchman, a local property owner whose estate overlooks the beach, has actively demonstrated the seriousness of the issue by walking along the shore to show the extent of the waste.

The beach has become cluttered with cartons, plastic bottles, broken glass, and various other forms of rubbish that holidaymakers have left behind. Latchman emphasized that since Boxing Day, visitors have neglected to clean up after themselves, resulting in an unsightly environment. She noted the health risks posed by this litter, especially as rising tides wash debris into the ocean.

Latchman pointed out a lack of accountability among visitors, indicating that many of the offenders are from outside Pacific Harbour. Despite assurances from local police of increased patrols, she feels these measures have not been effective in deterring the problem. Latchman is calling on the Lami Town Council and the government to implement sustainable solutions to prevent future occurrences.

Local residents are now questioning who is responsible for keeping the beach clean and are advocating for stricter enforcement of littering laws to maintain both the environmental integrity and the image of Pacific Harbour as an attractive tourist destination.

The issue has caught the attention of local stakeholders, including the Fiji Times, which has reached out to the Lami Town Council regarding this ongoing problem but has yet to receive a response.

This situation highlights the need for community accountability and may inspire collaborative efforts among residents, local authorities, and visitors to foster a culture of environmental stewardship. By raising awareness about the impact of littering, Pacific Harbour can take steps toward reclaiming its pristine beachfront while ensuring that it remains a welcoming destination for years to come.

In summary, residents are calling for action against littering at Pacific Harbour’s beaches, prompting discussions about responsibility and environmental preservation.