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Gweru City Council issues 14-day ultimatum over refuse disposal
7 hrs ago |
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Gweru City Council (GCC) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to business operators to regularise refuse disposal practices amid growing concerns over improper waste management and public health risks.
The directive follows the Government's ban on the sale of second-hand clothing in central business districts and the prohibition of all-night vending, measures which local authorities were instructed by Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, to enforce humanely.
In its latest public health notice, GCC raised alarm over overflowing skip bins and unsanitary conditions in parts of the central business district and surrounding areas.
Director of Health Services, Mr Samson Sekenhamo, said investigations revealed that some businesses were disposing of refuse at designated skip points after scheduled morning collections, often using hired push carts, causing waste accumulation.
Further assessments indicated that several premises either lack adequate refuse receptacles or have none at all - a violation of the Gweru Public Health By-Laws.
Under Statutory Instrument 12 of 1982, property owners and occupiers are required to provide approved refuse bins in accessible locations. Statutory Instrument 13 of 1982 mandates that Class "A" refuse be stored exclusively in approved containers fitted with close-fitting lids.
"All business operators have, therefore, been directed to procure and maintain approved refuse receptacles within 14 days of the notice," Mr Sekenhamo said.
He added that bins must be placed in sanitary lanes or in front of premises at all times, placed on pavements between 5am and 7am on collection days, and kept covered and hygienic. Non-compliance will attract penalties under public health regulations. Businesses seeking clarification on approved containers have been advised to consult GCC's Cleansing Department.
Mr Sekenhamo stressed that cooperation from business operators is critical to safeguarding public health and sustaining a clean, orderly, and environmentally responsible Gweru.
The directive follows the Government's ban on the sale of second-hand clothing in central business districts and the prohibition of all-night vending, measures which local authorities were instructed by Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, to enforce humanely.
In its latest public health notice, GCC raised alarm over overflowing skip bins and unsanitary conditions in parts of the central business district and surrounding areas.
Director of Health Services, Mr Samson Sekenhamo, said investigations revealed that some businesses were disposing of refuse at designated skip points after scheduled morning collections, often using hired push carts, causing waste accumulation.
Under Statutory Instrument 12 of 1982, property owners and occupiers are required to provide approved refuse bins in accessible locations. Statutory Instrument 13 of 1982 mandates that Class "A" refuse be stored exclusively in approved containers fitted with close-fitting lids.
"All business operators have, therefore, been directed to procure and maintain approved refuse receptacles within 14 days of the notice," Mr Sekenhamo said.
He added that bins must be placed in sanitary lanes or in front of premises at all times, placed on pavements between 5am and 7am on collection days, and kept covered and hygienic. Non-compliance will attract penalties under public health regulations. Businesses seeking clarification on approved containers have been advised to consult GCC's Cleansing Department.
Mr Sekenhamo stressed that cooperation from business operators is critical to safeguarding public health and sustaining a clean, orderly, and environmentally responsible Gweru.
Source - The Chronicle
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