All beachfront businesses charging fees to visitors should be accountable for the rubbish left behind on the beaches.
This was the view of Pacific Harbour resident Raveen Pillay who believes these businesses should bear the burden of waste management to address the growing problem of litter and unsanitary conditions in the area.
This call comes in the aftermath of New Year’s Eve celebrations, where locals left the beach trashed.
“If they’re charging fees, they should provide the bins,” Mr Pillay said.
“If they’re charging fees, they should provide garbage bags so that people can put their stuff in it, and they also should have an arrangement to have the rubbish cleared.
“And this is what’s not happening.”
The lack of waste management has created hazardous conditions on the popular tourist destination’s beaches, with broken bottles left behind posing dangers to visitors.
Mr Pillay also highlighted the absence of proper toilet facilities, which has led to unsanitary practices such as defecation in the sea, further polluting the beaches.
“These businesses are making money from people coming to use the beachfront, but they’re not taking responsibility for the mess left behind.
“That’s not satisfactory, and it’s something the Government needs to address.”
Mr Pillay has proposed that the Government enforce regulations requiring these businesses to manage waste effectively.
He suggests that the companies should be responsible for providing waste disposal facilities and ensuring regular cleanup of the beaches.
He also reiterated his call for the Government to acquire idle private land and convert it into public recreational spaces to ease the burden on the existing beaches.
“If the Government takes action to create proper facilities, it will improve the environment and attract even more people to Pacific Harbour.”
Mr Pillay believes that addressing these issues will not only benefit residents and tourists but also enhance Pacific Harbour’s reputation and economic potential.
He is urging the current Minister for Environment to take immediate steps to tackle the problem.
“This is important for Suva residents and Pacific Harbour.
“The Government needs to make funds available for this project and ensure that businesses do their part to keep our beaches clean and safe for everyone.”
