Services Archives - Lautoka City Council

Lautoka City Council Free Environment Clean Up Campaign to Foster a Greener Community

admin — Sun, 28 Jul 2024 21:51:00 +0000

In an effort to promote environmental consciousness and cleanliness, the Lautoka City Council has announced the commencement of the highly anticipated “Free Environment Clean Up Campaign.” Scheduled to run from July 29, 2024, to September 6, 2024, this initiative aims to engage residents in a collective effort to enhance the cleanliness and sustainability of Lautoka City. With a focus on residential areas, the campaign encourages citizens to actively participate in thorough compound clean-ups, while also providing guidelines for the responsible disposal of various waste materials.

Key Points:

Promoting Cleanliness:

Under the “Free Environment Clean Up Campaign,” Lautoka City residents are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to diligently clean their compounds. By removing items that may serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes or contribute to environmental pollution, such as cans, bottles, tires, coconut shells, and household utensils, residents can contribute to a cleaner and safer living environment for all.
Residential Focus:

The campaign emphasizes the importance of waste management in residential areas. It includes the removal of backyard waste, including tree branches, materials that facilitate mosquito breeding, grass, and tires. It is crucial to note that the campaign does not cover industrial refuse, trade waste, or commercial refuse. However, commercial and industrial waste owners have the option to transport their refuse to the Vunato Disposal Site, where the council may waive disposal fees with prior approval. Alternatively, a nominal fee can be paid to the council for removal.

3. Collection Guidelines:

To ensure effective waste removal, residents are advised to adhere to specific collection guidelines. The collection team will pass through the streets once, so it is essential to place refuse out for collection before the designated dates or before the truck arrives in the area. Failure to do so may result in the council not being responsible for the removal of refuse placed after the scheduled collection. Cooperation from residents in adhering to the guidelines will ensure a smooth and efficient clean-up process.

Please ensure to place all refuse (ONLY 3-5 days) prior to the Collection Dates

4. Responsible Disposal and Fines:

Proper disposal practices are crucial throughout the campaign. Residents are reminded to avoid abandoning or littering refuse inappropriately, as this may result in a spot fine of $40.00 under the Litter Promulgation 2008. To prevent any damages and inconvenience, it is advised to place the refuse for removal in a convenient location that does not obstruct fire hydrants, water valves, water meters, sewerage chambers, telephone, and electrical pillar boxes. Blocking driveways or access ways should also be avoided.

The “Free Environment Clean Up Campaign” represents an exciting opportunity for Lautoka City residents to actively contribute to a greener and more sustainable community. By embracing this initiative and following the guidelines set forth by the Lautoka City Council, citizens can play a pivotal role in maintaining a cleaner living environment and mitigating potential health risks associated with improper waste disposal. Let’s come together, demonstrate our commitment to environmental stewardship, and make Lautoka City shine as a beacon of cleanliness and sustainability.

The council will continue to provide “user pay” service for those who intend to clear refuse outside the tentative timetable at nominal costs per load.

Wards and Street Names:

WAIYAVI WARD

SIMLA WARD

TAVAKUBU WARD

VEITARI WARD

WAIYAVI WARD

SIMLA WARD

TAVAKUBU WARD

VEITARI WARD

For any other enquiries, please contact Lautoka City Council on 666 0433 or Head of Services on 9908553 or Manager Health Services on 9908485 or Team Leader Assets on 9908554.

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Namoli Green Night Market Opening Soon

admin — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 03:58:51 +0000

The Namoli Green Night Market is set to open on the first week of January.

Lautoka City Council Manager Health Services and acting chief executive officer Rouhit Karan Singh said people can look forward to a range of food delicacies available between 6pm to 6am daily.

The Namoli Green Night Market will be located beside the Lautoka Bus Stand and will comprise 70 food stalls including seven cart spaces with washing and sitting facilities for vendors and consumers.

“The practical completion inspection has been conducted by the consultant and we are in final stages of completion,” Mr Singh said.

“We will have a stakeholder meeting to discuss our policy and the stall fees and those who applied first will be given first chance.

“The master list is already. There are more than 80 vendors who applied however that number has gone down to 60.”

Food vendor, Lusiana Mere, said she hoped the night market would also cater for day vendors who still have food sell.

Source: Fiji Sun | 29th December, 2023

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Lautoka City Council Honors Schools for Environmental Excellence in 2023 Clean Schools Program

admin — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 03:38:21 +0000

The Lautoka City Council’s Health Department recently hosted a prestigious awards ceremony at RSL Hall, Tavewa Avenue, Lautoka, to recognize the outstanding achievements of schools participating in the 2023 Clean Schools Program (CPS).

Key Highlights:

During the event, crucial waste management issues were brought to the forefront, with an estimated daily waste generation of 91.7 tons in LCC. Comparative studies revealed a significant reduction in household waste generation rates from 880 grams per person per day in 2009 to 326 grams per person per day in 2022.

Out of the 50 schools in Lautoka, an impressive 35 actively participated in CPS 2023, with 22 located in urban areas and 13 in rural settings.

Acknowledging a Decade of Progress:

The Chief Guest and Special Administrator of LCC, Mr. Joeli Waqa, highlighted the long-standing impact of the Clean School Program, emphasizing its implementation for the past 12 years (except in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic). Mr. Waqa acknowledged the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and its Volunteer, Nozomi San, for initiating and developing the Clean School Program in 2010 in collaboration with Nadi and Lautoka Municipal Councils.

Addressing Environmental Challenges:

Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh, Acting Head of Services, emphasized the severity of waste management issues and the potential repercussions on the environment if not properly addressed. He stressed the significance of small daily practices in making a substantial difference.

Objectives of the Clean School Program:

The CPS, organized to introduce a 3R-centric system in schools, aims to:

Provide schools with the opportunity to initiate proper waste management.
Reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Attain maximum practical benefits from products while generating the minimum amount of waste.
Target children to create awareness of waste minimization in schools, homes, and communities.

3R Concept Defined:

The 3R concept involves reducing waste generation at the source, reusing items to extend their life cycle, and recycling used materials to produce new products.

Challenges Faced and the Way Forward:

While celebrating the successes of CPS, the Health Inspector, Mithun Prasad highlighted the challenges that emerged during the program, including a lack of understanding of its basic concepts, monitoring issues, and struggles with waste reduction, composting, and recycling in schools.

Moving forward, schools are recognized as pivotal in educating children on achieving a healthy and sustainable environment. School composting, a major CPS component, significantly reduces waste and can generate income for schools.

Objectives of the Initiative:

Give schools the opportunity to initiate proper waste management.
Target children to create awareness of waste minimization in homes and communities.

The Clean Schools Program focuses on elevating the environmental consciousness of children, considering them effective agents of change. The initiative aims to instill good practices in their lives, inspiring them to champion environmental cleanliness as they grow into leaders.

2023 Judging Results

RURAL			URBAN
Overall Winner	Lovu Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Winner	Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School	Trophy
Overall Runner-up	Raviravi Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Runner-up	Lautoka Andhra Primary School	Trophy
Environmental Awareness
Overall Winner	Raviravi Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Winner	Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School	Trophy
Overall Runner-up	Lovu Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Runner-up	Lautoka Andhra Primary School	Trophy
Composting
Overall Winner	Lovu Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Winner	Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School	Trophy
Overall Runner-up	Raviravi Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Runner-up	Lautoka Muslim College	Trophy
Recycling
Overall Winner	Lovu Sangam Primary School	Trophy	Overall Winner	Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School	Trophy
Overall Runner-up	Sathya Sai Primary School	Trophy	Overall Runner-up	Lautoka Zhong Hua Primary School	Trophy

Images from the event:

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Collaborative Effort Enhances Food Safety Monitoring in Lautoka

admin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 04:44:53 +0000

The Lautoka City Council’s Health department and the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) have embarked on a joint surveillance and monitoring campaign of local supermarkets to ensure the safety and suitability of food products. This comprehensive initiative, launched yesterday, is designed to create awareness and safeguard the quality of food items during the upcoming festive season and beyond.

In a proactive move, eight supermarkets within the Lautoka area have undergone meticulous inspections, with the aim of maintaining the highest standards of food safety. Any supermarkets found operating under unsanitary conditions will receive abatement notices, as stipulated under the Food Safety Act of 2003.

Moreover, these collaborative efforts extend beyond mere inspections. Supermarkets have also been alerted to any additional violations, and food products deemed unfit for human consumption have been promptly condemned for destruction, ensuring the well-being of consumers.

The initiative commenced following a comprehensive briefing by both the Lautoka City Council’s Health department and the FCCC, reflecting their shared commitment to safeguarding public health. The joint surveillance and monitoring campaign will be an ongoing effort, extending into the coming months.

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New Facility to Improve Working Conditions for Collection Pillars of Recycling

admin — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 04:03:08 +0000

Hon. Maciu Nalumisa Inaugurates Portable Washroom and Kitchen Facility at Vunato Dump Site, Lautoka.

Lautoka, Fiji – Today, Hon. Maciu Nalumisa, Minister for Housing and Local Government, marked a significant milestone by officiating the official opening of a Portable Washroom and Kitchen Facility at the Vunato Dump Site. The event showcased the commitment of the Fijian Government, in collaboration with Lautoka City Council and Pacific Waste Recycling Foundation, to enhance the working conditions of waste pickers known as Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPRs).

In his address, Minister Nalumisa highlighted Lautoka’s strategic importance as Fiji’s second-largest city and commercial hub, emphasizing the need to foster strong social cohesion and community bonds through the provision of modern facilities.

“The Ministry of Local Government and Municipal Councils aspire to create towns and cities of choice for investors and tourists, elevating the quality of living for Fijians,” stated Minister Nalumisa. He stressed the crucial role of efficient municipal solid waste management in environmental sustainability, particularly in reducing carbon footprints and combating climate change.

The Vunato Dump Site, managed by Lautoka City Council, receives 70-80 tons of solid waste daily, serving Lautoka, Nadi, Denarau, outer island hotels, and resorts. The composting of organic waste from the Lautoka Market is a priority, and recycling of municipal waste plays a vital role in prolonging the site’s usable life.

The establishment of the portable kitchen and washroom facility signifies a joint effort between Lautoka City Council and Pacific Waste Recycling Foundation, supported by the Australian Government. It is the first facility of its kind in Fiji and aims to improve the working conditions of CPRs.

Addressing the challenges faced by CPRs, Minister Nalumisa outlined the importance of partnerships and overcoming stigma associated with waste picking. He underscored the significant role CPRs play in waste management and their contributions to the circular economy and environmental protection.

Looking ahead, Minister Nalumisa announced plans to relocate the dump site to a more suitable location and establish a landfill and associated recycling facility. This initiative aims to enhance waste management, reduce environmental nuisances, and prioritize the health and well-being of the community.

The Fijian Government and Municipal Councils remain committed to investing in modern facilities that cater to the evolving needs of communities, ensuring a sustainable future.

The Ministry expressed gratitude to the Pacific Recycling Foundation for its continuous efforts to improve the working conditions of CPRs.

The event concluded with appreciation for all attendees and their contributions to this significant step towards enhancing waste management practices in Fiji.

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Have civic pride, residents urged

admin — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 21:47:24 +0000

The Lautoka City Council is pleading with residents to have some civic pride and use proper rubbish bins with tight lids to dispose garbage.

The plea follows reports of rubbish continually seen in drains and along major residential areas during allocated garbage collection days.

Council chief executive officer Mohammed Anees Khan said people needed to do the right thing and dispose their litter appropriately.

“The council humbly requests cooperation of all citizens in having civic pride and join hands in keeping our city clean and healthy by doing the right thing and place all litter in the appropriate bins for collection by LCC,” Mr Khan said.

“Promote civic pride by practising yourself, encouraging others and report uncivic behaviour to appropriate authorities.

“Love your pets, have them duly licensed, and do not let them become stray. De-sex or neuter your pets so they don’t multiply out of control.”

Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association president Narayan Reddy said Lautoka had always been known for its cleanliness, however, this seemed to have deteriorated in recent years.

Mr Reddy said the onus was on the city residents to practice basic hygiene measures.

“The bins are provided but people don’t use them,” he said.

“When the council announces the free clean-up campaign, residents put out their rubbish after their allocated date and this adds to the many litter lying scattered.

“Please take pride in our environment and dispose rubbish accordingly.”

Source: The Fiji Times | 19 September, 2023

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Market vendors’ skills to enhance after graduation

admin — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 21:43:47 +0000

The business and entrepreneurial skills of local market vendors is expected to notch up another level with the recent graduation of 30 vendors who piloted a six-month Virtual Finance and Business Management Mentoring Program.

The program was introduced to vendors by a Markets 4 Change Projects team from the United Nations Development Program and facilitated by the US Peace Corps team.

In Nadi yesterday, the UNDP Fiji Office Programme analyst for inclusive growth and effective governance, Patrick Tuimalealiifano informed new graduates that the six-month virtual course was not just about learning; but rather about transformation.

“It was about equipping yourselves with the knowledge and skills needed to not only survive but thrive in the face of adversity,” Mr Tuimalealiifano said.

“It was about embracing change and innovation in your businesses while preserving the traditions and values that make our markets so special and unique in doing business.

“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us a lot of things about resilience in business including the importance of strengthening networks, to learn from each other, share experiences and support each other during trying times.”

Mr Tuimalealiifano noted that such unforeseen circumstances also taught business people the importance of practicing effective business management skills and saving for long-term development aspirations to also mitigate against unforeseen events, such as the pandemic and other external economic shocks to the business.

“The partnership between the Markets for Change Project and Peace Corps Fiji aims to develop skills in entrepreneurship, business management that will enable the market vendors and farmers to become self-reliant and financially independent especially during difficult times.

“To the 30 exceptional market vendors, let us celebrate your unwavering commitment. It is a testament to the power of partnerships, resilience, and the collective spirit.

“As we celebrate your achievements today, let us also look forward to a future filled with boundless opportunities.”

He also reminded vendors to utilise their continued growth and success to inspire others to continue to learn new ideas and skill and most importantly grow their business and contribute to society.

The newly-graduates are from the Lautoka, Nausori and Namaka markets, three of the four markets that successfully completed the program.

Meanwhile, the Markets 4 Change Project has been implemented successfully in the country with the assistance of the UN Women, Australia, New Zealand and Canadian governments together with the UNDP.

Source: The Fiji Times | 09 Sept 2023

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MINISTER OFFICIATES 20 NEW HOUSES IN KOROIPITA

admin — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 21:03:28 +0000

The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hon. Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa , graced a momentous occasion today as he officially inaugurated the opening of 20 new meticulously designed model town houses in Koroipita – Model Towns Charitable Trust. The event marked a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of the community.

The model town houses in Koroipita is a testament to the government’s commitment to provide high-quality and sustainable housing solutions to its citizens. Hon. Maciu Nalumisa, in his address, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in promoting a better quality of life and fostering vibrant neighborhoods.

The newly constructed town houses boast innovative architectural designs, incorporating eco-friendly materials, cyclone 3 standard. Each unit has been thoughtfully crafted to offer a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and comfort, catering to the diverse needs of families.

The Minister also acknowledged the New Zealand MFAT for their continuous support and working with the Fiji Government to safeguard the livelihoods of the people through this project.

In this financial year, a total budget allocation of $1.7 million has been provided to Koroipita Model Town for land development, and construction of 16 homes.

Source/credits: Ministry of Housing & Community Development

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Manager Health Services Represents Lautoka City Council at Sathya Sai School to Create Awareness on Environment Day

admin — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 20:33:35 +0000

On July 7, 2023, Manager Health Services, Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh, proudly represented the Lautoka City Council as a guest at the Sathya Sai School to raise awareness on Environment Day. The event was a resounding success, with a significant turnout of teachers, students, parents, and school management.

This year, the event focused on the theme “Solutions to Plastic Pollution.” The alarming fact that more than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually, with 50% intended for single-use, was highlighted. It is clear that our world is overwhelmed and suffocated by plastic.

The slogan for Environment Day 2023, “Green Today, Clean Tomorrow! Our Planet, Our Responsibility,” encapsulates the essence of the event. World Environment Day is a global platform to inspire positive change, engaging in activities such as clean-up campaigns, tree planting drives, and raising community awareness. By collaborating with like-minded individuals, we aim to address pressing environmental issues and implement sustainable solutions.

A strong message resonated throughout the event: “Let’s stop harming nature; let’s stop polluting it.” The importance of safeguarding the trees planted by our ancestors and continuing their legacy by planting new ones for future generations was emphasized. Protecting our planet starts with each and every one of us. Through simple actions such as reducing, reusing, and recycling, volunteering for cleanups, creating awareness, and planting trees, we can make a meaningful impact on the environment and secure a better future for generations to come.

Mr. Singh also shed light on the growing waste issues in Lautoka City. The council takes pride in organizing the Clean Schools Program (CSP), which promotes the concept of waste minimization among children, teachers, parents, and management in local schools. He commended the Sathya Sai School for their participation and acknowledged their impressive record as winners of the CSP for the past five years.

The event served as a call to action, encouraging attendees to commit to care for our environment, cease using plastics, plant trees, and spread awareness. Mother Nature herself pleads, “Dear Human! If you don’t destroy me, I will take care of you by providing food, shelter, clean water, and oxygen for a better and healthier life.”

As responsible stewards of the Earth, let us respond to this humble plea and take immediate action to protect and preserve our environment. The Lautoka City Council reaffirms its commitment to environmental leadership and urges everyone to join the cause. Together, we can ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

About Lautoka City Council:

The Lautoka City Council is committed to promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for its residents. The council aims to address environmental challenges through various initiatives and programs and create a cleaner, greener, and more vibrant city.

Contact:

Name: Rohitesh Narayan
Title: Digital Communications Officer
Organization: Lautoka City Council
Email: rohitesh@lautokacitycouncil.com.fj
Phone: 9925727

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Lautoka City Council Tracks Down Litter Offender, Sends Stern Warning to Offenders

admin — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:10:06 +0000

In a commendable effort to combat illegal dumping, the Health Department of Lautoka City Council has successfully identified and tracked down a litter offender who had illegally deposited household waste along Abaca Roadside. The discovery was made during routine monitoring of hotspot sites notorious for illegal dumping in the rural extended areas. It is worth noting that this particular area had recently been cleaned by the council.

Thanks to the meticulous investigation carried out by the Health Department, the offender was traced using names found on exercise books and other discarded documents at the site. The council ensured that the waste was promptly cleared by the offender and appropriately disposed of at the landfill.

To emphasize the seriousness of the offense, the litter offender was issued a Litter Offence Fix Penalty notice, imposing a $40.00 spot fine. The offender is required to pay the fine within 21 days, failure of which legal action will be taken.

The Lautoka City Council intends to send a strong message to all potential litter offenders, emphasizing that anyone caught littering will face the full brunt of the law. Additionally, the council urges citizens to join hands in keeping Lautoka City clean and healthy, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

By taking swift action against litter offenders, the Lautoka City Council aims to preserve the beauty of the city and create a healthier environment for its residents.

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