Trash mars Abu Dhabi Corniche

The Abu Dhabi Corniche is a haven for visitors, with its beautifully designed landscape, clean beaches, exercise spots, children’s play areas and various amenities.

An early morning stroll from the area’s petrol station to Mina (about eight kilometres away) does wonders to rejuvenate residents.

However, we were dismayed by the sight at the Mina waterfront recently. Although the area has an abundance of garbage bins and recyclable trash collection points, selfish minds see the waterfront as their landfill.

Littering seems to be a regular occurrence, as I’ve observed this happening over the past few weeks. No action has been taken, although there are plenty of municipal workers cleaning other parts of the Corniche.

Whatever trash is thrown in the water is just left there. I feel that it is not just the public that contributes to the litter, but also workers in the dhows and those travelling on boats. The garbage they throw eventually washes ashore.

This is a clear example of how people can be ignorant and irresponsible, when left unchecked.

If the authorities patrol the area, it would help minimise the damage. Instructions should also be given to people on board, prohibiting them from using the sea as their trash bin. Residents who continue to throw garbage should be fined.

The reader is a business planning coordinator in Abu Dhabi.

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