In a bid to combat illegal dumping, Nasinu Town Council’s Executive Chairman and Administrator, Felix Magnus is urging the government to support councils in creating a cleaner, sustainable Fiji.
Magnus says illegal dumping in Nasinu and across Fiji is a serious issue, with the $40 fine under the Litter Act failing to deter offenders who find it cheaper to pay the fine than dispose of waste at the Naboro Landfill, increasing costs for the town council and diverting funds from services for responsible citizens.
He says that existing penalties are insufficient to address the environmental damage caused and to discourage repeat offenders.
He adds to achieve clean surroundings and protect waterways, Magnus believes fines must be substantial enough to prevent illegal dumping.
Magnus says the challenges posed by informal settlements, where residents place heavy demands on council services but do not contribute to waste management costs.
He says some residents from these areas have offered to pay fees to help address the growing rubbish problem.
He is calling on the government to review the Litter Act, advocating for higher fines, community service for repeat offenders and policies ensuring informal settlements contribute to waste management.
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