A heap of uncollected garbage filled with polythene papers at Embakasi Estate in Athi River, Machakos County on Saturday January 6, 2018 (PHOTO/ MAUGO OWITI)
National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) has been blamed for increased garbage in Athi River town and its environs.
Residents claimed NEMA officials were reluctant in implementing the ban on paper bags in Machakos County.
“We wonder why the whole town is filled with paper bags despite the fact their usages was banned by the government several months ago,” said George Otwera.
Otwera said NEMA should be serious and arrest locals using plastic bags despite the ban.
Lydia Wamboi said there were some residents with polythene bags in their houses.
Wamboi said most of such locals kept the bags in their homes before their usage were burnt.
She said those in possession of the bags could be confiscating them in the dark at night thereby littering the town.
“How come we have never heard of people being arrested and arraigned in court in Athi River despite all these polythene which have littered everywhere,” said Wamboi.
They addressed the press in Athi River town on Saturday.
The residents claimed NEMA had got no presence in Mavoko Sub County.
They also blamed the Machakos Government for failing to collect garbage from the sub county.
“We are living under filthy conditions since the county government has failed to collect garbage, there should be quick intervention to prevent residents from contracting diseases,” said Otwera.