The rubbish problem at Vaitele Uta remains unresolved as foul smells continue to linger in the area despite recent efforts to clear vegetation.

When the Samoa Observer visited the site again, more rubbish was seen dumped along the roadside, while the strong odour that residents previously complained about was still present.

Although the grass in the area appears to have been cut down, the piles of rubbish remain scattered across the site, raising concerns among nearby residents about sanitation and environmental health.

Residents say the situation has not improved since the issue was first raised. Some claim that people from different areas continue to use the site as an illegal dumping ground, leaving household waste and other rubbish behind.

One nearby resident, Lusila Umutaua, previously told the Observer that the rubbish does not belong to families living nearby. “These are not our rubbish. People from everywhere come and dump their rubbish here and that’s what causes the bad smell,” she said.

The Observer also observed signs that some of the rubbish may have been burned, which could be contributing to the unpleasant smell lingering in the area.

The Observer resent an email to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) seeking an update on the issue. However, there was no response at the time of publication.

Meanwhile, the rubbish remains at the site, and the foul smell continues to affect the surrounding area, with residents hoping authorities will take further action to properly clear the waste and prevent further dumping.