Local govt corps clamping down on illegal dumping

RURAL development and local government minister Kazim Hosein said the 14 municipal corporations continue to prepare for the upcoming rainy and hurricane seasons.

Hosein said his ministry is collaborating with the health ministry and other stakeholders, including the disaster management units of the corporations, to develop additional strategies and precautionary measures for the upcoming seasons.

“The data is telling us to expect a very active hurricane season and so it is critical that our disaster response mechanisms are in place early. There are also new concerns about shelter management and the provision of relief items in light of the covid19 pandemic. We are planning for those possibilities as well.”

He said he will be visiting corporations that were severely impacted by flooding last year to inspect rainy season preparations and flood mitigation works.

He said local government representatives and essential employees continued to carry out their duties during the covid19 crisis and it was this commitment to service that ensured that preparations continued.

He said a virtual meeting will be held with corporation representatives soon to give updates on preparation measures throughout the municipalities. He noted the drainage division of the Ministry of Works and Transport supports the corporations in the clearing of water courses.

Hosein reminded people to report illegal dumping to municipal corporations as this makes public health and safety risks worse and increases the potential for and severity of flooding. The fines for illegal dumping now stand at $4,000 for individuals and $8,000 for organisations. “The majority of citizens obey the law, but a small number of individuals insist on breaking it with no concern for how it affects their neighbour. I encourage citizens to report illegal dumping. You can make a report to the municipal police or notify the litter wardens. You can also reach out to your local government representatives or the ministry - take pictures or videos and send it to us. With your help, we can hold perpetrators to account.”