The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has raised alarms over the escalating issue of illegal dumping, advocating for stricter penalties and improved enforcement mechanisms to safeguard the environment. Permanent Secretary Dr. Sivendra Michael emphasized that addressing this problem requires a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Local Government and local municipal councils.
One concerning aspect highlighted by Dr. Michael is that some incidents involve companies which have valid waste disposal permits yet still engage in illegal dumping. He noted, “It is troubling that some companies with proper permits are not adhering to their responsibilities,” spotlighting the accountability hurdles that regulators and local authorities face.
Dr. Michael has also criticized current penalties for violations, which range from $1,000 to $1,250, deeming them insufficient for deterring such actions. The ministry is evaluating potential amendments to regulations to enhance both the amount and variety of fines for breaches of permit conditions, aiming to heighten deterrence against illegal dumping.
The environmental impact of these illegal acts can be catastrophic, especially when involving hazardous materials like sewage or chemical waste. Dr. Michael described illegal dumping as a crime against the environment, stressing the need for serious consequences. He stated, “This should be treated as any other criminal offense, and we need to implement harsher fines to foster a culture of deterrence.”
In response to this challenge, the ministry has trained 326 Litter Prevention Officers (LPOs) and has plans to expand this force to 500. However, Dr. Michael emphasized that the focus should not just be on the number of officers but also on properly equipping them with the necessary tools for effective enforcement. Each LPO is provided with identification cards and fine books to ensure they can issue penalties promptly.
Dr. Michael also pointed out that enforcement actions are impartial; he himself issues fines when he observes violations from his government vehicle. This approach reinforces the ministry’s commitment to empowering enforcement officers through ongoing training and resources.
As part of their continuous efforts, refresher training sessions are being held, and LPOs will receive a compact handbook detailing relevant legislation. This initiative aims to ensure that offenders understand their violations when penalized, signaling a robust commitment to environmental protection and fostering responsible waste management practices within communities. The proactive steps taken by the Ministry illustrate a hopeful direction towards more effective environmental governance.