Illegal dumping threatens Lusaka drainage systems

By MUBITA KATETE

THE Lusaka City Council has issued a stern warning to residents, traders and businesses against the illegal dumping of waste in the city’s drainage systems, particularly the heavily affected Bombay Drain, saying offenders risk arrest and prosecution.

In a statement the Council said illegal dumping in major drainage channels has continued despite recent rehabilitation works aimed at restoring damaged infrastructure and improving water flow in flood-prone areas.

LCC revealed that through its Engineering and Infrastructure Development Department, extensive rehabilitation works were recently undertaken on a collapsed section of the Bombay Drain to reinforce the structure and safeguard surrounding communities and businesses.

However, the Council expressed concern that residents have continued disposing of plastics, solid waste and other refuse into the drainage system, undermining efforts to protect critical public infrastructure.

“Despite these efforts, illegal dumping continues unabated. Waste, plastics, and solid refuse are being thrown into the drains daily. This blocks water channels, reduces drainage capacity, and threatens the integrity of the recently rehabilitated infrastructure,” Ms Chola Mwamba ACC spokesperson said.

Ms Mwamba warned that blocked drains remain one of the major causes of flash floods during the rainy season, putting lives at risk while causing destruction to homes, roads and business premises.

“Blocked drains are a direct cause of flash floods during the rainy season. This endangers lives, destroys property, damages roads, and disrupts economic activity. The cost of repairing avoidable damage places an unnecessary burden on both the Council and the community,” she added.

She further reminded members of the public that dumping waste in drainage systems is an offence under the Local Government Act and the Public Health Act and warned that it would no longer tolerate the vice.

“The Council will no longer treat this matter lightly. In partnership with the Zambia Police Service, enforcement officers will intensify patrols and surveillance along all primary drains. Offenders will be identified, arrested, and prosecuted,” she said.

According to LCC, heavy fines will also be imposed on offenders in addition to charges related to cleanup costs and damage caused to public infrastructure.

The Council has since urged residents to use designated waste collection points, skip bins and licensed waste collectors, stressing that keeping drains and open spaces free of waste is a shared responsibility.

LCC has further appealed to members of the public to report incidents of illegal dumping as part of efforts to protect public infrastructure and prevent floor