President Dr. Irfaan Ali is set to lead a high-level task force aimed at urgently addressing the mounting garbage pile-up in Georgetown, as the capital city grapples with persistent waste management failures and growing public frustration.
The move comes amid widespread concern over the deteriorating state of Georgetown’s streets and public spaces, where uncollected garbage has become a daily eyesore and health hazard. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo recently criticized the city council for neglecting its waste management duties, despite receiving substantial revenues, and accused the council of allowing the situation to worsen for political reasons.
The newly established task force will bring together representatives from the public sector, private sector, and civil society to coordinate a comprehensive clean-up and long-term waste management solution for the city. This initiative signals the central government’s determination to prevent further decline in urban sanitation and aesthetics, especially as the city prepares for major national events and ongoing development projects.
President Ali has previously emphasized the need for a modern, sustainable waste disposal system, and has explored partnerships with overseas investors to convert solid waste into energy and other useful products. The government is also considering stricter penalties for improper waste disposal and launching public education campaigns to encourage better environmental practices.
In recent community meetings, President Ali pledged to work closely with the Georgetown City Council to improve garbage collection, drainage, and street lighting, while also deploying resources from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority and other agencies for immediate interventions.
The task force’s mandate will include not only cleaning up the current garbage backlog but also developing strategies for efficient, long-term waste management and fostering greater cooperation between local and central authorities. With President Ali at the helm, the government aims to restore Georgetown’s reputation as the “Garden City” and ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for all residents.
