The government has initiated a community-based waste management programme to address garbage disposal and help combat a significant dengue outbreak, while simultaneously distributing equipment to local authorities.
Sri Lanka is rolling out a new community-driven waste management initiative aimed at improving garbage disposal and reducing dengue transmission, according to an announcement by Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government Prof. Chandana Abeyratne in Puttalam. The programme represents a coordinated effort to address public health challenges linked to inadequate waste management across the country.
The dengue situation in the country remains concerning, with cases exceeding 84,000 and 61 deaths reported so far this year. Poor waste management practices are recognised as a contributing factor to the spread of the mosquito-borne disease, making the timing of the initiative significant for public health efforts.
To support the waste management drive and address persistent resource constraints, the ministry has secured funding and received its first batch of machinery. Distribution of this equipment to local authorities commenced on August 5th. The new machinery is intended to equip local government bodies with improved capacity to manage waste more effectively and maintain local infrastructure including roads.
