Solid waste issues advisory on scavenging at derelict site

Road Town, Tortola - The Solid Waste Department is advising persons on the dangers associated with scavenging parts from the old cars stored at the Sea Cow’s Bay site.

Solid Waste Officer, Mr. Paul Dias, stated that “The practice of scrapping car parts at the derelict site is extremely dangerous and poses fire hazards since oil is drained from vehicles on a daily basis and individuals risk bodily injury or death if a welding torch ignites any of the patches of oil.”

Mr. Dias further stated that although the site is secured after hours, members of the public continue to cut into the wire fence or pull it down to gain access. The Solid Waste Officer added, “Another challenge being faced is the indiscriminate dumping of bulky waste metal and scrap parts onto the site.” He stated that the Solid Waste Department encourages garage operators and mechanics to dispose of their scrap car parts at the site and they are advised to contact the department to arrange a convenient drop-off time.

A representative from ENS Excavating, the company responsible for managing the Government’s derelict site explained that “people normally come looking for car doors, chassis, mirrors or any parts that could be found for use.”

The representative expressed concern with the scrapping of abandoned vehicles, especially when it was done directly outside of the storage site, leaving the road littered with car parts. He added, “The public should contact the Solid Waste Department to confirm whether the facility can accommodate more vehicles prior to bringing them.”

Since the enforcement of the Derelict Vehicles (Disposal) Act in 2003, the department has removed more than 6,000 abandoned vehicles from the Territory’s roadsides. Under the Act, the Solid Waste Department is empowered to dispose of abandoned vehicles after alerting owners by posting a notice on the vehicle.

The Derelict Vehicles (Disposal) Act was established to promote a healthy environment within the BVI and to reduce the risk of vehicular accidents. Once the vehicles have been processed at the storage site they are shipped to a steel mill for recycling purposes.

The Solid Waste Department is the Government agency responsible for the collection and disposal of community solid waste, as well as the promotion of proper waste disposal practices.