‘The decline in cleanliness has become progressively noticeable’ in VI- Lorna E. Tom
According to Lorna E. Tom, the littering, illegal dumping, improper waste disposal, and dilapidated buildings in Road Town are affecting the quality of life for residents and are making a negative impression on tourists.
“Our Islands, with their rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, have always been a source of great pride for our residents. However, recently, the decline in cleanliness has become progressively noticeable. Litter on the street, unmanaged waste disposal, and deteriorating infrastructure not only tarnish our city’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to environmental and health hazards,” Ms Tom told Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) today, Sunday, December 10, 2023.
‘Robust solutions’ needed- Lorna E. Tom
Ms Tom said she believes it's “imperative” for the government to take action and implement robust solutions that address the issue promptly.
“With that in mind, poor infrastructure maintenance with dilapidated streets, broken signs, and poorly maintained public spaces not only contribute to an untidy appearance but also pose safety hazards.
“I urge the government to prioritize infrastructure maintenance and allocate resources to ensure that Road Town’s physical surroundings are well-kept and welcoming. Enforcing strict regulations and strengthening laws and regulations related to littering, illegal dumping and improper waste disposal can act as a deterrent,” Ms Tom related.
The proud Virgin Islander, who said she has a vested interest in the well-being of her country and the happiness of its inhabitants, said imposing strict penalties and actively enforcing these regulations can discourage irresponsible behaviour and protect the sanctity of these beautiful Virgin Islands and its capital city, Road Town.
She also said many persons in the community share the sentiment that there is a drastic need to address the unsightliness of Road Town.
“I sincerely hope that we can prioritise these concerns and take swift action to address the untidiness that currently plagues the beautiful Virgin Islands we call home,” Ms Tom stated.
59 Responses to “‘The decline in cleanliness has become progressively noticeable’ in VI- Lorna E. Tom”
It has two buildings in the picture in this article. Not one “island man” own them buildings
Pat. You need to stop it, both locals & non locals + government contribute to the mess, it is not only an eyesore but it also smells, and the practice of having these trucks dumping feces in the middle of town during the middle of the business day which they sometimes spill on the ground does not help, so you see there are lots of blame to go around, everyone in Road Town should wear masks.
WHEN THEY ARE ON COCAINE , SOME MAY BEG YOU AND IF YOU SAY YOU AIN'T GOT WHAT THEY ASKED FOR YOU CAN GET CUSSED OFF OR THEY MAY BUSS YOU A HARD CLOUT
Since the residents are not taking care of things on their own and the District Rep seems lost, the Premier needs to step in and exercise some strong leadership and management to get Road Town back to its picturesque state. Breakout the damn BIG guava stick; it is if you scared , wanting to be loved. Public sector leadership is not for the weak of heart or for those with a yearning to be loved by all. The Premier has to be the great motivator with the BIG Stick. As Ms. Tom suggested go with the broken window theory, ie, put policies and procedures in place and enforced them; enforced every infraction no matter how small. If you looking for a locale to benchmark, look at Singapore. I’m out!!
[Let’s lead as eagles lead, not careen off the cliff as leaderless buffaloes]
If I’m passing and see something needs attention
I do it
We all can do that
We all can keep the surroundings clean
Unfortunately some ppl just really nasty and lazy
Good luck just hope all goes well and we all understand gabbage is dealy poison... do we know what we breathe!
It's disgusting the garbage floating around the Virgin Islands.