MALAITA Province the huge challenge of managing the waste disposal site in the provincial capital, Auki.
This came after the transformation of the old rubbish dumpsite into an illegal betelnut market after the provincial government relocated the Oru betelnut market, previously situated at the Aoke Langalanga Fishery Centre.
Chief Field Supervisor for the Malaita Province Town Council, Ben Laufa confirmed to Solomon Star that his team is now struggling with waste collection operations.
He explained that the usual site for rubbish disposal is now occupied by betelnut vendors.
“While the site is privately owned, the government had an agreement with the landowner to use it as a rubbish dumping ground.
“However, with the betelnut market occupying the area, the waste management system has been severely disrupted,” he said.
“We have stopped collecting rubbish because the dumpsite is now occupied by the betelnut vendors.
“My team is waiting for any direction from the provincial government before we can resume our work,” Mr Laufa said.
Mr Laufa said Malaita Province Town Council had been informed of the government’s efforts to secure a new site for waste disposal.
“We are hopeful that a new location will be identified soon to address the ongoing waste management issues,” he added.
Last year, the Malaita Provincial Government launched the “Malaita Green Healthy Setting” programme, which aims to promote cleanliness and improve health standards in Auki.
Attempts to contact the Premier Elijah Asilaua for comment on the issue were unsuccessful as he has been attending executive meetings.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
