It was heartening to read in the newspapers that the new Minister of Urban development Construction and Public Utilities is taking steps to clean up the city and its environs. It is a long overdue step necessary to make the city a healthy place to live in. But it is a great pity that a few of the other ministers like the minister of Highways, and minister of Labour, are trying to hinder him from going ahead with his plans. They had even tried to belittle the project saying that there are more important matters to attend to rather than ejecting people from their homes. What they seem to forget is that the purpose of demolishing such shanties is not only to make the environment look nicer, but to prevent our drainage system clogging up further and causing epidemics, flooding of roads and dwellings, and even posing a threat to public security. It is well known that such overcrowded shanties breed crime.

It is a sad reflection on our society that when some constructive work is planned, it is opposed by powerful elements who have a vested interest. It is a well known fact that most of the illegal structures in the city and suburbs are put up with the backing of politicians in high places. These politicians therefore are against the demolition of these structures where all sorts of vices prolificate. Most of these houses do not belong to the very poor, but people of means use them for selling drugs, running illegal betting joints and selling unhygienic food. Those who have no other place to live in and are ejected, should be found alternate accommodation in suitable places. And from the statement made by the minister of Urban Development, that is what he plans to do. The minister of Highways should be thankful to him, as we all know that pavement hawkers clog pavements impeding the flow of traffic, causing accidents.

Too many good projects started by well meaning politicians have been thwarted in this manner. The human problem is very important no doubt, but how can a city develop if unauthorised structures are allowed to clog waterways and public roads? Our city today is highly polluted, the drainage system is bursting at the seams, with illegal filling of water retention areas for buildings, flooding of roads and dwellings is a recurrent feature with every monsoon, and sometimes with a single shower of rain.

It is not only the cabinet of ministers who should give thought to this serious problem, but all right thinking persons who have the future of our country at heart. Sadly, on all public matters, our people are not civic-conscious and only grumble when things go wrong. It is time the people took a collective stand on such a vital issue, to strengthen the hand of the minister. The force against such a move are powerful and should not be underestimated. But if the Minister is backed by the honourable Prime Minister and H. E. the President, he could achieve his goals and be remembered for his courageous actions.
LS,
Nawala.