The Suva City Council (SCC) is currently facing a significant challenge in maintaining waste collection schedules due to a shortage of rubbish trucks, according to executive chairperson Tevita Boseiwaqa. This situation has led to growing frustration among residents of Bayview Heights, who have expressed concern about unpleasant odors emanating from accumulated garbage at the roadside.
Residents like Jotame Baleiwai have voiced their dissatisfaction, noting that the SCC has not adequately communicated about the delays in rubbish collection. Despite efforts to contact the council for garbage disposal, many residents are finding that larger piles of waste remain unaddressed, with only regular kitchen waste being collected.
Another resident, Losana Raikibeqa, highlighted the health hazards posed by the rubbish, which is attracting pests such as flies and rats. She stated, “The stench from the rubbish is unbearable,” adding that the situation worsens with rain, causing significant discomfort and illness within her family.
Additionally, some residents reported seeing outsiders using the area as a dumping ground, further complicating the issue.
In response to these concerns, Mr. Boseiwaqa acknowledged the challenges and indicated that the council is actively seeking alternative methods to enhance waste collection services. He mentioned that the SCC has started hiring extra garbage trucks to mitigate the backlog, emphasizing the additional financial burden this places on the council, costing around $500 per trip.
He also underlined the importance of community responsibility, stating that many residents seem unaware of waste collection schedules and need to take the initiative to dispose of their rubbish more appropriately.
This situation serves as a reminder of the critical role that waste management plays in community health and wellbeing. There is an opportunity for the SCC to improve communication with residents about waste schedules and educate them about responsible rubbish disposal. Enhanced community engagement can foster a collaborative environment, ultimately leading to a cleaner and healthier neighborhood.
Summary: The Suva City Council is grappling with delays in waste collection due to a shortage of rubbish trucks, leading to complaints from residents regarding accumulated garbage and its health impacts. The council is working to address these issues and is asking residents to take more responsibility for waste disposal.
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