The Rabaul Urban Local Level Government (LLG) has started enforcing spot fine for people caught red-handed chewing betel-nut, smoking and littering in public places around Rabaul Town in East New Britain Province.
Environmental Health Officer, Josephine Varip said this action is part of efforts to improve town cleanliness, improve public health and sanitation, and engagement of youths to maintain law and order in Rabaul Town.
She said last year, a number of awareness was conducted to inform people on the increase of spot fine from K20 to K100. There are a total of 21 laws and three namely: spot fines, littering and smoking in public places, currently being enforced.
Ms. Varip said to support the program, twenty local youths recently completed an induction training on how to properly implement and enforce Rabaul Urban Laws.
“The training helped them to understand Public Health rules, how to carry out enforcement respectfully and how to educate and conduct awareness in the community about keeping public places clean,” Ms. Varip said.
She said the program is about helping people change their behavior and take responsibility for their surroundings.
“We want people to understand that keeping Rabaul clean is everyone’s duty. These laws are there to protect our health and environment. The youths involved will help enforce the rules while also educating the public,” Ms. Varip said.
Public areas such as markets, streets and bus-stops will be monitored as enforcement continues.
Awareness activities will also be carried out so residents understand the rules and penalties. The program has collected more than K5,000 in spot fines in the past month.
Among the youths engaged in the program is Nasi Tonga, a former prison inmate who is now taking part in this community service driven program.
He said his engagement highlights how the program is also creating opportunities for rehabilitation and giving youths a second chance to contribute meaningfully to the community.