By Pempho Nkhoma

Blantyre, April 15, Mana: Blantyre City Council (BCC) has disclosed that it is reviewing by-laws to include stiffer penalties for noncompliance with illegal waste disposal that compromises the local authority’s aspiration for an ever cleaner city.

BCC Public Relations Officer (PRO), Deborah Luka told Malawi News Agency (Mana) in an interview on Wednesday that the by-law review will ensure proper waste management.

“The council has introduced a special enforcement unit led by police officers who will be enforcing the bylaws,” she said.

“BCC therefore encourages city residents to report to the council any illegal dumping and any contradictions to the city aspirations for a cleaner city.

“Any reported or observed illegal dumping will be investigated and once confirmed, stop orders or notices will be issued. These will be followed by fines, or in default imprisonment” she said.

Environmental expert, Charles Mkoka said illegal dumping sites in Blantyre City have serious environmental, health and social consequences.

“Dumping waste near rivers or drainage systems leads to contamination of water sources like the Mudi and Nasolo rivers resulting in harming aquatic life and endangering human health. Burning of waste at illegal sites releases harmful gases, contributing to air pollution and respiratory issues in nearby communities,” he said.

Mkoka therefore, emphasized the need for BCC to improve waste collection and disposal services by increasing the number of designated waste collection points and improve regular garbage collection.

“The city council needs to establish more recycling and dumping sites to reduce pressure on landfills. Promote economy practices where waste is reused and recycled rather than dumping.

“They can also partner with companies and NGOs for waste-to-energy projects, recycling programs and funding clean-up operations,” he added.

BCC raises awareness on the need to prevent illegal dumping through its website, social media pages, as well as physical meetings in form of road shows and clean up campaigns where residents are encouraged to actively participate in proper waste management.