​Four renovation and construction workers and contractors, who illegally deposited a large amount of construction waste and bamboo poles on the roadside of Minden Avenue in Tsim Sha Tsui last November, were fined a total of $20,000 at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts today (May 31) for contravening the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO).

     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received a public report last November that some waste had been illegally deposited on the roadside of Minden Avenue in Tsim Sha Tsui. The total volume of the waste was about five cubic meters, causing obstruction to the pavement. The member of the public also provided a video recording he captured during the incident to assist the EPD's investigation. With the licence plate information captured and the reported information, the EPD were able to trace the four persons involved. After evidence gathering, they were prosecuted in accordance with the WDO.

     It is unethical and unlawful to dispose of construction waste in public places or on the roadside. An EPD spokesman reminded those involved in building renovation, construction works and transportation sector that they should dispose of construction waste properly in accordance with the law. Reusable materials or waste with a recycling value should be collected by recyclers, while non-recyclable waste should be delivered to appropriate waste management facilities, such as public fill banks or landfills, for proper treatment or disposal. Under the WDO, it is an offence for anyone to dispose of waste in public places. First-time offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment. 

     The spokesman urged members of the public to report to the department if they witness any vehicle illegally dispose of waste. They can report the case by providing videos or photos or call the EPD departmental hotline at 2838 3111 to help combat illegal dumping.

Ends/Thursday, May 31, 2018
Issued at HKT 15:30

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