WILLEMSTAD - In early November 2023, Selikor commenced its cleaning operations, distributing the works in three phases to cover the entire island of Curaçao. Already in various areas on the island, particularly the carnival route, we have observed ongoing cleaning activities.
The tasks of the first phase lasted longer than initially planned and were supposed to be completed by December 2023. Currently, the cleaning efforts are focused on the entire carnival route. In this initial phase, cleaning commenced in more than 79 sectors, with 33 of them already completing cleaning on main roads, intersections, roundabouts, and public areas. The cleaning of these 33 sectors resulted in the removal of 178 tons of waste.
Following the completion of phase 1, the operations will continue with phase 2. Phase 1 covered the area from Zegu to Westpunt. Phase 2 will encompass the lower part of Curaçao, from Brievengat to Seru Machu. In this area, we are also talking about cleaning 97 sectors. Selikor is optimistic that the ongoing negotiations with the government will yield positive outcomes, enabling the continuation of the cleaning works to cover the entire island. The intention is for Selikor to start phase 3, which involves cleaning main roads, intersections, and public areas in the middle part of Curaçao, in the third quarter of 2024. Phase 3 will cover the central part of Curaçao.
All of this signifies that during the year 2024, every neighborhood will have its turn for the cleaning works. Residents of the different neighborhoods will have the opportunity to witness the cleaning activities in their respective areas.
The cleaning operations will be carried out by 135 contractors and neighborhood organizations, involving residents of the neighborhoods and groups of individuals currently unemployed. In this cleaning project, it is estimated that at least 835 people will have employment for a defined period, during the one-year duration of the cleaning and maintenance of the designated areas.
Selikor is requesting all residents to provide space for the cleaning teams so that they can carry out their work optimally. Once the cleaning activities are completed, the appeal is for each resident to contribute by helping maintain the area around their homes. Residents need to realize the importance and necessity of actively participating in keeping their neighborhoods clean. This is part of our civic responsibility for our country. By each of us doing this, we can ensure a clean Curaçao, just the way we want it. Selikor relies on the cooperation of each and every one in this manner to help keep Curaçao free of waste.
An appeal is made to every organization and group of individuals with the intention to organize a cleaning action, to please get in touch before planning the cleaning activities. In conclusion, Selikor counts on the cooperation of motorists to be mindful of workers alongside the roads, reducing speed in areas where cleaning activities are taking place.