Roadtown, Tortola - The Solid Waste Department is seeking cooperation from members of the public with maintaining the Territory’s roadsides.

Manager of the Solid Waste Department, Mr. Anslem Myers, stated that motorists continue to drive with bags of garbage on their top of their vehicles, increasing the likelihood of garbage being scattered in the streets. Mr. Myers further stated that this practice hinders the efforts of the department as the garbage may fall off of the vehicles when drivers pass through areas which may have recently been cleaned by the department’s sanitation workers. This, he added, would nullify the effect of the work performed by the street cleaners.

The Solid Waste Manager reminds the public that according to the Litter Abatement Act, transporting any type of waste in a manner that can cause the waste to litter the roadside is an offence and is subject to a maximum fine of $500.00 or three months in prison.

Mr. Myers commended the department’s sanitation workers stating that “the work teams are diligent groups of men who are committed to maintaining the aesthetics of the Territory”. He added that in spite of the dedication shown, sanitation workers constantly experience instances of verbal abuse and disrespect from members of the public.

Mr. Myers advises the public to refrain from verbally abusing the department’s sanitation workers and to direct all complaints to the Solid Waste Department’s Road Town office. Members of the public can reach the office directly by dialling 494-6245 or 468-3701 ext. 4934.

The Solid Waste Department is the government agency under the portfolio of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, which is responsible for the collection and disposal of community solid waste throughout the Territory.