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Lautoka City Council Hosts Successful Clean School Programme Awards Day

admin — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 04:18:35 +0000

Lautoka City Council proudly hosted the Clean School Programme Awards Day today at the RSL Hall, Lautoka, celebrating the outstanding efforts of schools in promoting sustainable waste management and environmental awareness. The event highlighted the success of the Clean School Programme, an initiative aimed at introducing the 3R-centric system (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) to schools in Lautoka.

Objectives of the Clean School Programme:

Enable schools to establish proper waste management systems.
Reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Maximize practical benefits from products while generating minimal waste.
Raise awareness among children on waste minimization at schools, homes, and communities.

This program targets students to foster personal growth, critical thinking, informed decision-making, and their role as responsible citizens. The initiative was monitored under three key components:

Environmental Awareness Raising – Encouraging schools to actively practice 3R principles.
School Composting – Teaching natural processes to convert organic materials into compost (natural fertilizer).
Waste Separation & Recycling – Promoting the segregation of waste for recycling.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Shalend Singh, Head of Services, emphasized the importance of waste management, citing alarming statistics:

Waste generation at the Vunato landfill is estimated at 91.7 tons per day.
A study in 2022 revealed a household waste generation rate of 326 grams per person per day, compared to 880 grams per person per day in 2009.

Mr. Singh applauded the schools’ efforts in contributing to sustainability, stating that the Clean School Programme not only reduces waste but also encourages environmentally responsible practices, nurturing a culture of sustainability among students.

Award Winners:

The highlight of the event was the recognition of schools that excelled in the program:

Overall Winner (Rural): Raviravi Sangam Primary School
Overall Runner-Up (Rural): Lovu Sangam Primary School
Overall Winner (Urban): Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School
Overall Runner-Up (Urban): Lautoka Zhong Hua School

The Lautoka City Council commends all participating schools for their commitment to creating a cleaner, greener future. By instilling sustainable practices in students today, we are paving the way for a better tomorrow.

The Council encourages more schools to join the Clean School Programme and become active participants in protecting our environment for future generations.

Together, let’s build a cleaner, greener Lautoka!

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Recyclers deserve respect and recognition, not handouts

admin — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 20:32:28 +0000

In a significant shift for the local recycling sector, the Pacific Recyclers Alliance has recently gained formal recognition, marking a critical step forward for grassroots recycling advocates.

This acknowledgment underscores the pivotal role of informal waste collectors, or ‘Collection Pillars of Recycling’ (CPRs), who handle up to 60% of recyclables in Fiji and the region.

Amitesh Deo from the Secretariat for the Pacific Recyclers Alliance said the focus was clear, CPRs, who are often marginalised and face significant stigma, need respect and structured support rather than mere charity.

“Recyclers don’t need handouts; they need recognition and respect from the public,” Deo stated emphatically.

He believes this is a matter of providing these individuals with the dignity and support they deserve including essentials like personal protective equipment (PPE), safety boots, rain gear, and access to facilities such as washrooms.

“[The] recognition achieved at the 4^th Clean Pacific Round Table (CPRT) held in Tuvalu showed that our voices are finally being heard,” Deo stated.

“The support for the role of the Collection Pillars of Recycling in the CPRT outcomes is a significant victory for the thousands of individuals engaged in the collection of recyclables across Fiji and other Pacific nations. This recognition validates the hard work and dedication of these communities, who are essential to the region’s recycling and waste management efforts.”

The CPRT also marked a historic moment with the formal recognition of the term “Collection Pillars of Recycling” (CPR), a term originally coined by a group of women in Vunato, Lautoka, in 2022.

The term was introduced during workshops organized by the Pacific Recycling Foundation in collaboration with the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, and Lautoka City Council. These workshops sought to replace the negative connotations associated with “informal waste pickers” with a more dignified and empowering identity.

The Pacific Recyclers Alliance, with Fiji serving as the Secretariat, is in the process of formalising its structure. Key steps include drafting a constitution, formal registration, and establishing a framework for collaboration among member countries. The Alliance will also focus on enhancing local waste management practices through knowledge sharing and implementation of best practices across the region.

One of the most pressing issues, according to Deo, is the need to move beyond mere discussion and to implement actionable solutions. The Alliance is committed to ensuring that research and policy discussions lead to real-world changes in waste management and recycling practices.

“Local communities and CPRs are beginning to see the impact of this new recognition, although the full effects are still unfolding.

Deo noted a sense of cautious optimism among CPRs, who view this recognition as a long-awaited victory in their ongoing struggle for dignity and respect.

As the Pacific Recyclers Alliance continues to build momentum, it aims to leverage global recycling days and other initiatives to further elevate the role of CPRs and drive systemic change in recycling practices.

The secretariat office in Suva is planning to extend its work to other Pacific Island Countries with Solomon Islands and Vanuatu first on the list.

The newly formed Pacific Recyclers Alliance, which now integrates six national recyclers associations, aims to streamline and enhance waste management and pollution control efforts across the Pacific region.

The Clean Pacific Round Table also encouraged Pacific Island Countries and Territories to establish National Recyclers Associations and to expand their membership and representation within the Pacific Recyclers Alliance.

Deo affirmed the Pacific Recyclers Alliance’s commitment to continuing its advocacy and support for CPR and grassroots recycling organisations throughout the Pacific.

“Our work is far from over,” Deo concluded. “We remain dedicated to supporting and amplifying the efforts of grassroots recyclers as we work together toward a more sustainable future.”

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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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Developing capacity for post-typhoon disaster waste management in Lautoka, Fiji and Makati, Philippines

admin — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 03:57:10 +0000

In recent years, Asia and the Pacific have been ravaged by strong typhoons that caused widespread destruction. The powerful winds from these typhoons ripped off roofs, windows, doors and walls from houses, and destroyed trees and other vegetation, leaving a vast amount of wooden, metallic, plastic, and glass debris and waste scattered across a wide area. Proper management of disaster waste is a critical task during the initial phase of disaster recovery. It is essential for coastal cities that are frequently affected by typhoons to have adequate capacity for post-disaster waste management.

This capacity development project aimed to contribute to this end by providing appropriate knowledge and training to government and non-government stakeholders. The project was implemented in Lautoka City, Fiji and Makati City, Philippines, with the support of four prominent universities. In total, six training sessions were conducted under the project. The primary outputs of this project are the disaster waste management contingency plans of the two participating cities. The project team disseminated information about the capacity development project through the project website and through presentations in academic conferences, webinars, workshops, training, non-academic conferences, and radio guest appearances.

APN Science Bulletin – Technical Report
(2023, Volume 13, Issue 1, 153–162, e-ISSN 2522-7971)

Lautoka City Council Disaster Waste Management Contingency Plan

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Lautoka City Council Boosts Litter Prevention Efforts with Training for New Officers

admin — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 20:29:58 +0000

Lautoka City Council recently conducted an in-house training session for its newly recruited Litter Prevention Officers on April 4, 2024, at the Council Chambers. Led by Acting Head of Services Rouhit Singh and Acting Manager Health Services Shalend Singh, the training aimed to equip officers with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively enforce anti-litter laws and regulations.

The comprehensive training covered various aspects, including the Litter Act 2008, enforcement provisions, citizen awareness initiatives, evidence gathering techniques, issuance of Litter Offence Notices, and court procedures. With three full-time Litter Prevention Officers now in place, the Council is poised to intensify its anti-litter enforcement campaigns, particularly during early morning and evening hours.

Citizens are advised to adhere to anti-litter laws, as violators found littering in public places or burning waste will face fines. This includes individuals who disregard garbage collection schedules or improperly dispose of garbage on roadsides after collection.

Citizens are requested to cooperate with the council in keeping the city clean and beautiful. Council has been creating awareness to citizens regarding problems resulting from littering and open burning of rubbish. There is need to refrain from littering as it pollutes our environment and becomes an eye sore.

Citizens are reminded to adopt following environmental friendly practices:

Make use of the public litter bins for discharging rubbish whilst in the city;
Refrain from littering in drains/creeks, roads, parks, market, bus stand, footpaths etc;
Put a stop to burning of rubbish;
Use councils garbage collection and bulky refuse collection services for discharge of household.
Refrain from sweeping wastes from shops and offices onto councils footpaths and streets.
Place garbage in proper bins with tight fitting lids to avoid scattering by stray dogs.
Place garbage for collection by 7.00 am for residential areas and by 8.00am for commercial and industrial areas.

Citizens are further advised that anyone found littering in public places will be issued with “on the spot fixed penalty notice of $40.00” without any further warning. Failure to pay fixed penalty will result in legal action against offenders.

Council therefore seek cooperation of all citizens to adopt environment friendly initiatives like practice recycling, composting, use of eco bags when shopping, stop burning of wastes and refrain from littering.

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Japanese Student Leads Environmental Cleanup and Beautification Initiative in Partnership with Lautoka City Council and Social Innovation Fiji

admin — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 22:16:18 +0000

It was moments full of joy and happiness when Lautoka City Council associated with Social Inovation Fiji.

Student particant from Tokyo, Japan rightly thought of a project on environmental cleanup and beautification in the city.

Ms. Chiharu Numakura alias Chi chose Lautoka City as her project site with the intention to carryout Cleanup campaign with students and volunteers and add beautification to the city’s Botanical Garden.

Numakura san chose to pot plant more than 50 stems of 5 varieties of frangipani flowers. She collected branches of frangipani from the residents.

She was elated to state that Fiji has one of the most beautiful environment and friendly people. She chose frangipani as it has beautiful flowers and gives fragrance to the environment.

The founder and Director of Social Inovation Fiji, Mr. Akifumi Kawakami pointed out that this project was one small way to contribute towards cleanliness and beautification which will make big difference to the community at large.

Acting Head of Services-Rouhit Karan Singh thanked the group on behalf of Board of Special Administrators and the CEO for their immense contribution and efforts.

He highlighted that this should instill civic pride amongst our residents who shall realize the importance of community projects. All should come forward and make their City clean and beautiful as we are the true custodians of our beloved city.

Many a times, residents cut beautiful plants and flowers in their premises and throw them away. The residents can gladly give these plants to council so we can increase our nursery collections.

It’s definitely taking small steps today for better environment tomorrow

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Official Opening of Namoli Green Night Food Market and Launch of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City

admin — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 22:30:29 +0000

The Minister of Local Government, Hon. Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa, graced the official opening ceremony of the Namoli Green Night Food Market and the launch of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City, marking significant strides towards enhancing community facilities and urban infrastructure.

Namoli Green Night Food Market: A Culinary Hub for Innovation

Situated adjacent to the Lautoka Bus Stand, the Namoli Green Night Food Market stands as a beacon of culinary diversity with 70 food stalls, including seven cart spaces equipped with washing and sitting facilities for vendors and consumers alike. This innovative market is not just a place to savor local cuisine but a platform aimed at fostering fresh ideas, nurturing local businesses, and fostering community bonds. In a first for leisure enthusiasts, the market offers an ambiance perfect for strolling, shopping, and relishing delectable food.

Hon. Maciu Katamotu Nalumisa emphasized the Fijian Government and Lautoka City Council’s unwavering commitment to modernize facilities while keeping an eye on the evolving needs of the communities, both present and future.

Digital Parking Meters Revolutionize Lautoka City’s Parking System

In a parallel initiative, the Minister inaugurated the deployment of Digital Parking Meters in Lautoka City, aligning with the city’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies for improved urban services. Lautoka City Council, guided by the Ministry, procured 45 state-of-the-art Electronic Parking Meters to replace the traditional lollipop meters.

The introduction of Pay & Display meters and the revolutionary Pay By Plate technology ushers in a new era of convenience. This technology enables users to input their vehicle registration number into the system, with real-time updates accessible to city rangers via smart devices. In the coming weeks, the Pay By Plate feature will be activated, allowing drivers to pay for parking at the nearest Pay by Plate parking meters without returning to their parked vehicles. During this transitional period, drivers are advised to display their parking tickets on their dashboards.

Lautoka City Council remains steadfast in its commitment to embracing modern solutions that elevate the city’s functionality and convenience, exemplifying a forward-looking approach to urban development.

Note: The drone shots and video are courtesy of Mr. Mohit Lal of Lautoka City.

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Lautoka City Council’s Garden Team Enhances Adam Street Police Post

admin — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 21:33:53 +0000

The Garden Team of Lautoka City Council (LCC) recently took on the responsibility of beautifying the Adam Street Police Post, marking a collaborative effort to uplift the image of this vital community facility.

Acting Head of Services, Mr. Rouhit Karan Singh, engaged in discussions with the Post Officer to formulate a plan aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Police Post. Serving the residents of Simla and Tavakubu Ward, this initiative not only seeks to improve the physical appearance of the post but also aims to boost overall officer satisfaction in serving the public.

The beautification project aligns with LCC’s ongoing commitment to protect and enhance the city through community-driven initiatives, contributing to a visually pleasing environment for residents and visitors alike.

Acknowledging the symbiotic relationship between a well-maintained environment and community satisfaction, LCC remains dedicated to fostering a cleaner and greener Lautoka City. This effort extends beyond the aesthetic improvement of public spaces, recognizing the positive impact on the well-being of both residents and the officers stationed at vital community hubs.

The Adam Street Police Post has embraced this initiative wholeheartedly, expressing their commitment to maintaining the newly introduced greenery. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also aligns with their dedication to sustainability and a healthy environment.

As Lautoka City collectively moves towards a cleaner, greener future, the collaboration between the Garden Team and the Adam Street Police Post stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and environmentally conscious community. Let us continue working together to ensure the sustained beauty and well-being of Lautoka City.

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A Symbol of Civic Pride: Simla Resident Donates Teak Tree to Lautoka City Council’s Botanical Garden

admin — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 03:33:06 +0000

Mr. Henry Seeto of Simla visited Lautoka City Council’s Botanical Garden to hand over the Teak tree plant.

It was very generous of Mr. Seeto who had the plant in pot since 2012 and decided that the teak be planted in the Garden.

Mr. Seeto has been a senior citizen of Lautoka City and has spent more than 30 years in Simla. He appreciated the work carried by the Council in keeping the city clean and green.

In appreciation, Acting Head of Services-Rouhit Karan Singh thanked Mr. Seeto in coming up and joining council in maintaining lush environment. It’s a great display of civic pride.

Teak is a tropical hardwood tree and is known for its incredible durability and water resistance. It is commonly used for making boat building, exterior furniture, carvings etc.

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Manilkara Zapota- Sapodilla

admin — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:47:46 +0000

Manilkara Zapota plant in Lautoka City’s Botanical Garden is commonly known as sapodilla (chikku in Hindi) is an evergreen tree native to southern Mexico. It belongs to the family Sapotaceae and kingdom to plantae. The fruit has an exceptionally sweet, malty flavor. The tree can survive only in warm, typically tropical environment.

The Sapodilla tree, known for its remarkable longevity, can thrive for up to one hundred years. Reaching heights of over 30 meters (98 feet) with a trunk diameter of 1.5 meters (5 feet), this majestic tree is a testament to nature’s grandeur. In cultivated settings, the average height ranges from 9 to 15 meters (30 to 49 feet), with a trunk diameter not exceeding 50 centimeters (20 inches).

Durable and Resilient: The Sapodilla tree exhibits remarkable wind resistance, and its bark is a source of a white, gummy latex known as chicle. The ornamental leaves, glossy and medium green, are elliptic to ovate, measuring 7–15 centimeters (3–6 inches) in length, with an entire margin.

Inconspicuous Beauty: The tree’s white, bell-like flowers with a six-lobed corolla are inconspicuous yet add to its understated beauty. An unripe fruit, with a firm outer skin, releases white chicle when picked. In contrast, a fully ripened fruit has saggy skin and retains the chicle.

Large, Delectable Fruit: The Sapodilla’s fruit is a sizable berry, ranging from 4 to 8 centimeters (2–3 inches) in diameter. Inside, its flesh exhibits hues from pale yellow to earthy brown, with a grainy texture reminiscent of a well-ripened pear. Each fruit houses one to six glossy, black seeds resembling beans.

Exquisite Flavor and Characteristics: Known for its exceptionally sweet, malty flavor, the unripe fruit is firm and contains saponin, exhibiting astringent properties akin to tannin. This characteristic can induce dryness in the mouth.

Survivor of Warm Tropical Climes: The Sapodilla tree thrives in warm, tropical environments, displaying low tolerance to drought and heat during its early years. However, it succumbs easily if temperatures drop below freezing. Typically taking five to eight years to bear fruit from germination, these trees yield twice a year, with continuous flowering throughout the year.

The Sapodilla tree is a true marvel, showcasing nature’s resilience and providing a bounty of delectable, sweet fruits.

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