Bulawayo city fathers have expressed concern over litter bugs in the central business district (CBD), saying the city centre is now very dirty.
According to latest Bulawayo City Council minutes, councilors also expressed concern that no action was being taken against litterbugs.
“Councillor Christopher Dube noted that there was a need for an educational campaign at all council clinics targeting pregnant mothers attending antenatal on the use and disposal of pampers,” read the minutes.
“The area next to the Police Drill Hall was very dirty.
“Councillor Sikhululekile Moyo was concerned about the city’s dirtiness, which she said was worsening.
“Letters with addresses have been picked up at illegal dumps and reported to council, but no action was taken.”
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Council does not have a particular by-law on littering, but is relying on borrowed by- laws derived from the Public Health Act as well as the Environment Management Act (EMA) Act.
The local authority once considered installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in the CBD to nab street litters for prosecution.
A number of residents have in the past been fined for illegal dumping after council personnel picked litter bearing their residential addresses or personal information.
Councilor Lilian Mlilo said littering fines must be reviewed upwards.
“Council staff members should have information about their department so that they assist councillors accordingly,” read the minutes.
“Those participating in street littering and illegal dumping should be named and shamed.”
“He [deputy mayor Mlandu Ncube] also urged the department to adhere to the refuse collection timetable.
“The issue of street/community sweepers had been raised for a long time.”
Councillors noted that the number of stray dogs was also increasing in the city.
“Dog patrols should be resuscitated. On the ongoing dog vaccination against rabies, why was council not providing these services for a fee?” the minutes added.
“Councillor Joyce Ndlovu enquired if council had a special vehicle for dog patrols, what was the council's plan regarding stray dogs?”