Garbage outside capital's maternity hospital a worry

Abu Dhabi: A garbage dump in front of the capital's only specialist maternity hospital is posing a health risk and is irking residents and hospital visitors alike, Gulf News has learnt.

"Because of the high amount of waste generated by the hospital and the nearby hotel, the garbage bins are usually overflowing making an irksome sight," said an official at the Corniche Hospital.

The situation is worsened by garbage collectors, who scatter waste around the bins in the process of sorting it, the official said.

"These garbage bins have been placed here recently and ever since, the entrance leading to the hospital has become a problem," he said.

The official criticised the apparent indifference to the problem. "Officials concerned have paid no heed to our requests to remove the garbage bins elsewhere. This place is frequented by would-be mothers and infants, which points to the need for providing a clean environment."

Another staff of the hospital said: "In the early morning, beverage cans and leftovers turn the place into a pile of filth. Also, the area behind the bins is often used by collectors for storage. The bins are emptied twice a day, I think. But they fill up fast."

Zainab Abu Sada, a hospital visitor said: "I often come across garbage collectors who pick out waste from the bins without using gloves. Apart from being unsightly, this is also a matter of health concern. These people might be putting themselves at risk."

"If it is a potential breeding ground for germs and it is close to the hospital, authorities need to do something," said Hufaiza Suhayl, who frequents the hospital.

The company in charge of refuse collection in the city could not be reached for comment.