By: Fatou krubally
The National Environment Agency (NEA) has announced stricter enforcement of the anti-littering regulations in response to the rampant littering in public places, streets, and highways across the country.
Offenders will now face fines, ranging from D1,000 to D30,000, for various littering offenses. This move, according to the NEA, is aimed at promoting cleanliness and preserving public health and the environment.
The agency said in a press release that it has been grappling with the issue of street littering for years, despite the existence of anti-littering regulations since 2007. The indiscriminate disposal of waste, the release stated, continues to pose a threat to public health and the environment, prompting the NEA to take a tougher stance against offenders.
In a bid to crack down on littering, the NEA will be conducting regular sensitization and enforcement campaigns nationwide. Offenses such as throwing litter from vehicles, discharging waste into gutters, and urinating in undesignated areas will no longer be tolerated. Offenders will now face hefty fines, with the possibility of prosecution at regional-level environmental courts.
Some members of the public expressed their support for the NEA’s initiative to curb street littering. Many cited the unsightly nature of littered streets, the foul odours emanating from waste dumps, and the negative impact on public health as reasons for the need to address the issue urgently.
“Street littering is a serious problem that affects us all. It’s time we take responsibility for keeping our surroundings clean and free from waste,” said Alieu Sarr, a resident of Coastal Road.
“I fully support the NEA’s efforts to enforce anti-littering regulations and hold offenders accountable for their actions,” added another.
Mam Jarra Keita, a young entrepreneur strongly emphasized the need for collective responsibility in combating street littering. She stated, “Street littering reflects a lack of respect for our environment and undermines the beauty of our neighbourhoods. We must all do our part to preserve cleanliness and instil a sense of pride in our communities.”
As the NEA prepares to intensify its crackdown on street littering, it is incumbent upon every citizen and resident to play their part in maintaining cleanliness in their surroundingsfailure of which will result in stiff fines and possible legal action.