By Nelson Manneh
A growing mountain of garbage at Old Yundum’s market dumpsite is turning the area into a public health nightmare, as locals blame the Brikama Area Council for failing to manage waste disposal properly. The site, located near the heart of the community, has become a focal point for complaints from residents who say the lack of regular waste collection is wreaking havoc on their daily lives.
The stench from the site is unbearable, affecting the entire neighborhood. “It’s unbearable, especially in the mornings,” said Ya-Fatou Camara, a long-time resident. “The smell invades our homes.” Despite community efforts to clean up the mess, people continue to dump their trash, leaving the area looking like a permanent dump.
“The council is to be blamed,” Camara added. “If they did their job and picked up the waste regularly, we wouldn’t be suffering like this.” The frustration among the residents is palpable, with many blaming the council for only collecting taxes and not addressing the pressing waste management issues in the area.
While the council has been criticized for its lack of action, locals argue that residents also need to take responsibility. Lamin Fatty, a youth in the area, said, “People must learn to manage their waste. But the council needs to clear this mess and stop people from dumping here.” Despite some efforts from local youth to clear the site, the problem persists.
The consequences are severe, which include bad air quality and the spread of disease.
Foroyaa has reached out to the Brikama Area Council for comment, but no response has been received so far. A visit to the council is planned.
