As waste piles up, Municipality director warns of consequences

Stresses combined responsibility in tackling waste dumping issue

Manama

--

 The northern area of the island witnessed a noticeable increase in the amount of construction waste this year as stated by officials.

 In addition to being a huge threat to the environment, officials said the waste is usually being disposed in the area using unhealthy methods.

 In a press statement issued yesterday, Northern Area Municipality Director Yousif Al Ghatam revealed that more than 13, 072 tonnes of construction waste was detected in the first half of 2015 alone. He added that the municipality removed 24, 960 tonnes throughout the previous year.

 “The incorrect disposal of construction waste is the most common negative phenomenon in the northern area,” Al Ghatam said.

 The director stressed “all are responsible in curbing this harmful behaviour.”

 He explained, “Some people believe that protecting the environment is only the municipality’s responsibility. This is fundamentally untrue. It’s the responsibility of each member of the society to monitor and report such violations, to maintain a healthy environment.”

 Al Ghatam added, “A major reason for the spread of such violations is that some people consider environmental violations as an ordinary matter.”

 “Raising awareness among the public is important to combat this phenomenon. If people are not educated about the humanitarian, civil and religious consequences of such destructive behaviours, one day will come when the environment and future for our children will be destroyed,” the director warned.

 The statement also quoted other officials of the municipality, mentioning the huge efforts to dispose of construction waste and the necessity of raising more awareness among the public in this regard.