The Algiers cleaning company, Netcom, has established a special program for the holy month of Ramadan, mobilizing 4,500 workers and 390 trucks to intensify waste collection and clean public spaces across various municipalities within its jurisdiction.
The Head of the Communication and Development Department at Netcom, Nassima Yakoubi, stated that in anticipation of Ramadan, a special program was launched prior to the month’s arrival. This includes cleaning markets, the surroundings of mosques, and leisure areas such as the Sablettes Promenade, the Ben Aknoun Zoo and Leisure Park, and the El Harrach water source.
The program takes into account the specific characteristics of this month, which sees an increase in the volume of waste collected by up to 18 percent compared to ordinary days, rising from approximately 1,100 tons per day to about 1,300 tons. This increase is primarily attributed to food waste.
In this context, the company has deployed significant material and human resources, consisting of 4,500 workers and 390 trucks of various types, including waste collection trucks, mechanical sweeping machines, and road washing trucks. Additionally, the fleet has been reinforced with 1,500 extra containers, including those specifically for collecting bread, which sees a surge in disposal during this period.
Work during the holy month will be conducted on a 24-hour shift system, with intensified interventions aimed at preventing waste accumulation and maintaining environmental cleanliness.
Regarding awareness efforts, Yakoubi mentioned that Netcom launched a campaign twenty days before the start of Ramadan to urge citizens to rationalize consumption and limit waste, citing its negative economic, environmental, and health impacts.
She noted that the accumulation of waste, of which organic materials constitute more than 50 percent, leads to decomposition and the spread of unpleasant odors and insects, posing a risk to public health and distorting the general appearance of the city.
Citizens and traders were also called upon to respect waste disposal schedules, use appropriate bags, and ensure waste sorting to facilitate the work of cleaning agents and ensure the cleanliness of the environment during the holy month.
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