Residents of informal settlements must be educated about proper hygiene and legal waste management practices, according to Tevita Mau, the chief operating officer of the Nasinu Town Council. His comments come in the wake of frustrations expressed by Caubati residents in Nasinu regarding ongoing rubbish dumping problems that have persisted for over 20 years.
An investigation initiated due to community complaints revealed that some residents, particularly from nearby squatter settlements, are allegedly exploiting local ratepayers by discarding waste in large piles near their homes. Yogesh Prasad, a 69-year-old resident of Caubati Rd, voiced his concerns about the environmental consequences of improper waste disposal, highlighting that many from squatter areas are not adhering to rubbish management regulations.
Prasad pointed out that poor disposal methods, such as not using plastic bags and delays in rubbish collection, have exacerbated the situation. “It’s a big issue and it’s coming to a point where there was a plastic bag full of animal parts and dead animals,” Prasad stated, noting that the town council had not cleared the rubbish for two weeks.
He criticized the Nasinu Town Council for their inadequate response, insisting that despite multiple complaints, the dumping issue remains unresolved. Prasad expressed concern over the declining conditions in the area, which he claims have led to drug-related activities and disturbances. He stated, “The rubbish is coming from people within this settlement and even those outside. Everyone has access, but not all are paying taxes. We pay taxes every day, and so they’re taking advantage, especially the squatters.”
In response, Mau emphasized the need for education within communities regarding waste management and indicated that the council is diligently fulfilling its duties while actively raising awareness about the issue. “I think this issue should be dealt with through cooperation between the council and communities,” Mau noted, adding that plans are in place to address the problem, though immediate solutions cannot be promised. “These issues can’t be solved overnight.”
Residents, including Prasad, are calling on both the local council and the government to take effective action, arguing that responsible taxpayers are being unfairly burdened by those who do not contribute to waste management services.