“Suva Residents Unite Against Rubbish Crisis: What’s Next?”

Suva City Council is currently facing challenges in waste collection due to a shortage of rubbish trucks, resulting in unsightly and unsanitary conditions for residents, particularly in Bayview Heights. Executive chairperson Tevita Boseiwaqa addressed the concerns of residents who have expressed their frustration over the delays causing piles of rubbish to accumulate at the roadside.

Local resident Jotame Baleiwai voiced his disappointment, highlighting the lack of communication from the council regarding the missed collection schedules. Despite efforts to reach out for help, residents have found that only regular kitchen waste is being collected, leaving larger waste piles unattended for days.

Another Bayview Heights resident, Losana Raikibeqa, reported that the accumulating garbage is posing health risks to her family. The stench from the rubbish attracts pests like flies and rodents, exacerbating the situation, especially on rainy days when the smell intensifies. Ms. Raikibeqa mentioned how her family has suffered health issues, including flu symptoms, likely due to their proximity to the waste.

Some residents remain anonymous but have brought attention to illegal dumping practices in their neighborhood, where outsiders dispose of their rubbish. This not only complicates the waste management issue but also adds to the frustration of those living in the area.

In response to the complaints, Mr. Boseiwaqa acknowledged the challenges and stated that the council is assessing alternative solutions to enhance service delivery. Currently, they have engaged additional garbage trucks at a significant expense, costing around $2,000 per day. He emphasized the importance of residents being informed about waste collection schedules and taking responsibility for maintaining a clean environment.

The council is committed to resolving these issues, and with community cooperation in following waste disposal guidelines, there is hope that the situation can improve significantly. Engaging residents in active discussions about waste management may foster a sense of community responsibility, ultimately leading to a cleaner and healthier environment for all.

Overall, this highlights the importance of effective communication between the council and residents, as well as the need for community participation in keeping neighborhoods clean.