Sharjah: The Sharjah Municipality is cracking down on illegal dumping of sewage in the emirate and has imposed a Dh100,000 fine each on people and companies found breaching the rules.
The fined companies sent their trucks to drain sewage from old villas, buildings and labour accommodations in different parts of Sharjah and dumped the collected waste in the desert instead of authorised sewage disposal plants located in Industrial Area 5 and Al Sajja Industrial Area.
“There have been many incidents where companies dump waste illegally in the city and in deserted areas that creates a hazard to the environment as well as to residents,” Al Suwaidi said.
The fine is applicable to residents and companies who are found dumping material and liquid waste.
The municipality had also caught many companies using pumps in the night to dispose of sewage illegally in the desert.
Around 50 inspectors conduct daily inspections in industrial areas and other parts in the emirate and monitor shops.
Al Suwaidi said truck drivers come up with “innovative methods” to dispose of sewage water illegally because they don’t want to pay charges or wait in queues to unload it in authorised areas.
“They make six-inch holes in the tank to allow for water spills on streets and deserts,” he said.
On one occasion, inspectors spotted a sewage truck going towards a desert area. They followed the truck and waited until the truck started dumping the sewage in the desert. As they swung into action, the driver tried to escape into the desert. A 30-minute chase later, the driver was held and referred to the authorities concerned.
His company was subsequently fined Dh100,000.
Al Suwaidi said the illegal practice causes severe damage to the environment and groundwater.
“Illegal dumping of waste and sewage causes environment pollution and attracts insects, spreads foul smell and destroys the soil. It also affects the groundwater that is used in the irrigation of plants.”
Al Suwaidi also urged residents to report anyone found disposing sewage or dumping any other materials illegally to the department’s hotline 993.
He added that the inspection teams are working round the clock to detect any kind of violations that affect the environment and public health.
Al Suwaidi said, “Our inspection team is vigilant and can detect any kind of illegal practices and would not tolerate those who cause harm to environment and public health.”
The 50-odd inspectors conduct daily inspections in industrial areas and other parts in the emirate and monitor shops.
Penalties for dumping hazardous waste
According to Sharjah Municipality regulations, dumping of sewage water, chemicals and construction waste in unauthorised areas attracts a fine of Dh100,000.
The vehicle used to dump the hazardous substance will also be confiscated.
The company involved will be shut down for repeated violations.
