Fiji’s battle against rising floodwaters starts with proper rubbish disposal and the cost of ignoring it is set to rise.
Speaking at a Talanoa session in Vuniniudrovu Village yesterday, Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya warned that the era of cheap fines for littering is ending.
The Government plans to financially target polluters.
“The Government is discussing raising the spot fine from $40 to $200,” Ms Tabuya said.
The Minister didn’t need to look far for proof of the problem.
“On my way here, I saw office chairs and other items being dumped at Qiolevu Rd.
She urged communities in Vuniniudrovu and Naitasiri to work together to monitor and report illegal dumping.
“As a community, you should work together to take care of your province.”
Ms Tabuya said poor waste management was a direct driver of flooding in the area.
“Interestingly enough, flooding is caused by us.
“We are not disposing of our rubbish properly.”
She emphasised that while infrastructure improvements were vital, the simple act of littering continues to sabotage the drainage system.
“Our drains are blocked with rubbish; this needs to change.”
The minister has called on all Fijians to dispose off their rubbish properly.
