Squatter Settlements to Face New Trash Costs: What’s the Plan?

The Standing Committee on Social Affairs has recognized the intentions of municipal councils to require residents of squatter settlements to take responsibility for the costs associated with improper waste disposal. During a recent session, committee chair Iliesa Vanawalu highlighted these developments while the Lautoka City Council presented its annual reports for the years 2015 to 2017.

Mr. Vanawalu pointed out that certain areas are significantly mismanaged when it comes to waste disposal, resulting in a lack of accountability since only renters are currently being charged for this issue. The committee expressed encouragement regarding the councils’ plans to involve squatter settlement residents in addressing this problem.

Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan explained that, while this issue is not prevalent in Lautoka, the council has implemented a system to improve waste collection efforts. Instead of collecting waste from individual homes, the council encourages settlement residents to form committees that will designate a common waste collection point. The council then retrieves the waste from that location.

Mr. Khan also mentioned that the council is collaborating with the Housing Ministry on two projects aimed at formalizing squatter settlements in Lautoka. Upon completion, these areas will fall under municipal jurisdiction, enabling the council to provide full services and charge residents the appropriate city rates—a change from the current situation where residents of squatter settlements are not subject to these fees.

This initiative reflects a proactive approach to managing waste in communities that have historically been overlooked, promoting accountability among residents and potentially leading to cleaner, safer living environments. As these collaborations progress, it is hoped that improved infrastructure and resources will further help squatter settlements thrive.

Overall, this plan offers a constructive path forward for both the municipal councils and the communities they serve, fostering cooperation and responsibility in maintaining environmental standards.