By Bill W. Cooper
Red-Light, one of the busiest commercial areas in Montserrado County, continues to witness a serious surge in garbage accumulation and deterioration in sanitation, leading to the filthiness of the entire market.
As a result, the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) and Liberia Marketing Association (LMA) are now under scrutiny as they face accusations of misappropriating funds allocated for waste management in the area.
The once vibrant marketplace, known for its bustling activities, now suffers from an overwhelming garbage problem, with the PCC and LMA ignoring the cries and complaints from marketers.
Piles of trash are strewn across the streets, causing an unpleasant stench and posing a significant health hazard to residents and visitors alike, as the escalating situation has also raised concerns among citizens, who are now demanding immediate action from the authorities.
The LMA, responsible for maintaining cleanliness within the market area, has faced severe criticism for its failure to effectively manage waste disposal, as it is also alleged that the association has been misusing funds allocated for garbage collection and other maintenance activities.
At the same time, several traders, as well as pedestrians and residents, have also voiced their frustration, accusing the LMA of neglecting its duties and allowing the situation to worsen.
In addition to the LMA, PCC, the local governing body responsible for waste management in Paynesville, has also come under fire. The corporation has been accused of embezzling funds designated for the collection and proper disposal of garbage in the Red-Light area.
This mismanagement has resulted in an alarming increase in the volume of waste, leading to overflowing bins and uncollected garbage on the streets across the entire market.
Meanwhile, residents and business owners in Red-Light have expressed their grievances, highlighting the detrimental effects of the unaddressed waste problem, noting that the accumulation of garbage not only poses health risks but also tarnishes the image of the bustling commercial district, negatively impacting local businesses.
The Traders are also afraid that the unsanitary conditions will drive away customers, undermining their livelihoods and economic stability, and are now demanding accountability from both the LMA and the PCC.
They are calling for an immediate investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds and a swift resolution to the garbage crisis, also emphasizing the need for transparency and efficient management to restore cleanliness and ensure the wellbeing of the community.
The businessmen and women have also threatened unspecified action against both the LMA and PCC if they refuse to account for funds received as well as address the continuous waste crisis in Red-Light.
The marketers said they also remain hopeful for a swift resolution and look forward to seeing improved waste management practices, effective utilization of funds, and a restored sense of cleanliness in their community.
