In January 2018, the Lagos State Government took action to combat improper solid waste disposal by banning the operations of cart pushers and wheelbarrow operators within the state. This decision was made to address issues such as indiscriminate waste dumping and security concerns.
The ban led to the confiscation and destruction of handcarts belonging to cart pushers, reducing their presence in areas where they used to operate. Consequently, the Lagos State Waste Management Authority trucks, also known as PSP, increased their activities in these regions.
Despite initial enforcement efforts, some cart pushers eventually resumed their operations, prompting concerns from LAWMA officials about residents’ reliance on them instead of the designated PSP trucks.
LAWMA emphasized that engaging cart pushers for waste collection violated environmental laws and contributed to environmental degradation. The agency highlighted the challenges posed by unlicensed waste collectors and the impact on the state’s cleanliness and public health.
While some residents cited issues with PSP services such as irregular schedules and high costs, they continued to opt for cart pushers’ services in areas like Mushin, Dopemu, Festac, Alakija, and Iyana Ipaja.
Despite the ban on cart pushers, their presence persisted in various neighborhoods, with residents expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of waste collection by PSP trucks in their areas despite paying fees.
LAWMA reiterated the prohibition of cart pushers’ activities due to the negative environmental impact of their actions. The agency disclosed ongoing efforts to enforce waste management laws and collaborate with enforcement agencies to address the challenges posed by illegal waste disposal.
Measures such as community service sentences and fines have been imposed on individuals caught dumping waste improperly. Additionally, LAWMA emphasized the need for collective efforts to achieve a cleaner Lagos and promote proper waste management practices.