As part of efforts to reduce illegal dumping around residential dumpsters, the Department of Waste Management has launched a “dumpster surveillance initiative.”
The programme was first implemented weeks ago at the double dumpsters adjacent to the well in Free Bottom, where bulky trash was being deposited in spite of signs prohibiting the practice, according to Government Information Services.
Additionally, bags of trash were being thrown at the base of the dumpsters or along the roadside. The problem got so bad that it obstructed traffic, according to GIS.
“It is unfortunate that we have had to resort to essentially providing ‘dumpster security,’” said Marquese Maduro, waste management officer in the Department of Waste Management. “But it has proven to be an efficient deterrent thus far.”
The waste management officer said that one of the surveillance officers — a DWM staff member — had been threatened on several occasions as he deterred residents from depositing bulky waste next to the dumpsters.
“We are therefore reminding the public that persons caught littering can be fined up to $500, according to the Litter Abatement Act,” he said, adding that the agency needs the public’s assistance to keep the territory clean.
Due to the success of the initiative in Free Bottom, the department is considering expanding it to other areas where dumpsters are being misused.
Electronic monitoring devices may be used in the future, according to GIS.
Currently, all surveillance officers are employees of the DWM who have been trained for the additional duties.
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