Squatter Settlements to Face New Trash Fees?

The Standing Committee on Social Affairs has recognized initiatives by municipal councils to involve residents of squatter settlements in the responsibility of managing waste disposal costs. During a recent meeting discussing the Lautoka City Council’s annual reports from 2015 to 2017, committee chair Iliesa Vanawalu highlighted the issue of improper trash disposal in these areas, where residents often throw refuse without proper accountability. He expressed support for the councils’ plans to help ensure that residents will share in the fiscal responsibility.

Lautoka City Council CEO Mohammed Anees Khan pointed out that while the direct involvement of squatter residents in waste management has not yet been implemented in Lautoka, alternative strategies are in place. The council is encouraging squatter settlements to form committees to designate common waste collection points, facilitating more efficient garbage collection rather than servicing each household individually.

Khan added that the council is collaborating with the Housing Ministry on two projects aimed at formalizing squatter settlements in Lautoka. Once these projects are complete and the settlements are incorporated into the municipal framework, the council intends to provide full services and begin charging applicable city rates, which residents currently do not pay.

This proactive approach not only seeks to improve waste management but also aims to uplift squatter communities by integrating them more fully into municipal services. By fostering community organization and responsibility, these initiatives could lead to better living conditions for residents while also instilling a sense of shared accountability for their environment.

In summary, the municipal councils are taking steps to ensure squatter settlement residents contribute to the costs associated with waste management, which aligns with broader efforts to regularize these communities and enhance local services. This positive development reflects an opportunity for community engagement and improvement in urban living standards.