This morning the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government (MRDLG) hosted a preliminary meeting with Chairmen of the Public Health Committees, Chief Executive Officers, Doctors and Public Health Officers of the Municipal Corporations to discuss the launch of a national Clean-Up exercise scheduled to take place prior to Divali and into the Christmas season. Representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Community-Based Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme (CEPEP) and the Solid Waste Management Company Limited (SWMCOL) were also in attendance as the MRDLG is formulating a collaborative, inter-agency approach that will create lasting effects within every community.
Minister Haji Kazim Hosein expressed the great need for sustained clean-up efforts, “We are in the height of the rainy season, and are fast approaching Divali and Christmas, when people will be focused on cleaning their homes and premises. In recognition of this we must work with the public, and we also must ask that they work with us. The next step will be to implement fines where necessary to those who do not comply with the law. We have to root out and stop illegal dumping and all public health violations across the country.” He appealed to the Municipal Corporations to engage the support of other stakeholders, the various trade unions, and their Volunteer Networks so that the works can proceed successfully.
This Clean-Up initiative will focus on the removal of derelict vehicles, demolition of dilapidated and unsafe structures, the clearing of overgrown lots, disposal of old tyres, and addressing other public health hazards. Citizens are encouraged to join this effort by reporting these issues in their communities to their respective Municipal Corporations, and continuing to keep their premises tidy. The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government looks forward to working with YOU to create cleaner, safer and healthier communities