14 May 2026 – The Maraland Territorial Council (MTC) has announced a complete ban on the sale, storage, transportation, and use of chemical pesticides, herbicides, and toxic substances within its territory, citing serious public health and environmental concerns.
In a statement issued by the Local Administration Department on 13 May, the use of chemical pesticides and toxic substances had caused health problems among local communities, soil degradation, contamination of drinking water sources, deaths of livestock, and environmental damage.
The statement also warned that the chemicals could pose severe health risks to children, pregnant women, and elderly people, while potentially threatening the long-term safety and well-being of local residents.
To protect public health, natural resources, and the environment, the council announced that, effective immediately, all villages and local areas under Maraland Territory are prohibited from selling, storing, transporting, or using chemical pesticides, herbicides, and toxic chemical products.
The council further stated that anyone found violating the order would face effective legal action in accordance with local administrative regulations.
The council also urged local residents to cooperate and comply with the directive to help protect the environment and community health. – Reporting by Ben
