Harare dumpsite smoke pose health hazard to residents

The harmful effects of toxins being emitted from the Pomona dumpsite are exposing individuals and the environment to serious health and ecological implications.

There are growing fears and concerns that the injection of toxic smoke into the air which is blowing from Pomona dumpsite may cause damage to residents in surrounding areas as well as the environment.

The Pomona dumpsite is located on the leeward side of residential areas and people living in suburbs surrounding Pomona are being affected by the heavy smoke which has the potential to cause breathing problems for those with respiratory conditions.

Some of the effects of the pollution may not be detected early but will manifest later on in life with the elderly, the young and those with respiratory conditions being at greater risk, says medical expert Dr Viveki Solanki.

It has always been known that Harare has not been adhering to proper management of solid waste and the city does not have proper disposal facilities.

Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Managing Director Mrs Mutsa Chasi said the EMA board has ordered Harare City Council to pay US$5 000 fine for improper management of the dumpsite.

However observers say the amount is not deterrent enough considering the damage the pollution is causing to humans and the environment.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate Mr Prince Mupazviriwo said the dumpsite was supposed to have been decommissioned five years ago but the City of Harare has been dragging its feet.

Nearby residential areas that include Borrowdale, Vainona, Mount Pleasant, Westage, Mabelreign and Marlborough are covered in a fog like mist.

When the wind blows the smoke is being carried a very long distance affecting a wider area.