The Cabinet has approved a nationwide initiative to remove derelict vehicles and clamp down on indiscriminate dumping, in a bid to improve the country’s environmental appearance and reduce public health risks.

During this week’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant confirmed that the government will deploy additional litter wardens to assist in the campaign, assigning them to the communities where they reside to maximise coverage and enforcement.

“The Cabinet was very firm in its position on ridding the country of derelict vehicles,” Merchant said. “The Minister has been given clear instructions to ensure the initiative is carried out effectively.”

The push follows growing concerns about the negative impact of abandoned vehicles and illegal dumping on communities and the nation’s image, particularly in relation to tourism.

Minister for Social and Urban Transformation, Hon. Rawdon Turner, who has been spearheading a cleanup drive in St John’s, has been instructed to expand the effort across the island.

The Cabinet acknowledged that past efforts to address the issue have often faltered due to poor follow-through. Officials now say the renewed campaign will be closely monitored to ensure results.

The initiative forms part of a broader government agenda to enhance public spaces and improve environmental stewardship across Antigua and Barbuda.