A large accumulation of waste along the Lumley and Aberdeen beach fronts has raised alarm among environmental and tourism authorities, following the failure of a key ocean protection net system.
According to a joint statement issued by the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and the National Tourist Board (NTB), the net installed by Propel Organisation and Engineers Without Borders to trap waste from entering the ocean via the Juba and Kaningo Creeks has collapsed under pressure from a surge of plastic waste and heavy debris. The breakdown has led to a significant buildup of refuse along the popular beach areas.
Despite continued clean-up efforts by the NTB in partnership with beach bar operators, the volume of waste has become overwhelming.
Authorities confirm that the collected waste is being transported to designated landfill sites, but the influx continues to outpace disposal efforts.
In addition to the plastic pollution, officials have warned the public to expect seasonal Sargassum (seaweed) deposits, which typically occur during the rainy season. The dual impact of waste and seaweed is expected to pose serious environmental and sanitation challenges from now until October.
“As we intensify our efforts to maintain a clean and smart environment, we appeal to all beachgoers and the wider public to recognize the severity of the situation and cooperate with ongoing clean-up operations,” the statement urged.
The Ministry and NTB are calling on individuals, institutions, and both public and private organisations to join and support the beach cleaning initiative.
