Torrevieja launches motocaca service to tackle dog waste
The service will focus on walks, squares and streets in the city centre and La Mata
In the coastal city of Torrevieja, a unique service has been making waves among residents and visitors alike. Meet the motocaca, a specialised vehicle designed to tackle the issue of dog waste on public roads. With its playful name and eye-catching design, this service is not only effective but also entertaining to watch.
The innovation has been launched by waste collection company Acciona in response to the city’s growing dog excrement problem and while the name motocaca is designed to be memorable and amusing, the service itself is no laughing matter. In fact, the company’s efforts to keep the streets clean have already led to a significant decrease in dog waste, making the area a cleaner and more enjoyable place for everyone.
The motocaca service focuses on the seafront of Torrevieja, as well as roads, public spaces and squares, including the centre of La Mata. The service operates daily, alternating between urbanisations from Monday to Saturday. The operator of the motocaca rides a 125cc motorcycle, which is equipped with a bespoke vacuuming system capable of collecting approximately 30 droppings per day.
How it Works
The motocaca's machinery uses a non-chemical floor cleaning product and its 25-litre capacity allows it to handle a substantial amount of waste, leaving the streets noticeably cleaner. While the service is efficient, it does have some limitations. Areas with other dirt or narrow footpaths can pose challenges for the motocaca, and tree pits can be difficult to access.
Given its novelty, the motorbike has become the most photographed vehicle in Orihuela Costa over the last few weeks, especially among bemused tourists. But fun aside, there’s little doubt that there has already been a notable decrease in dog waste in public areas since motocaca was introduced.
In Torrevieja, owners who fail to pick up after their dogs face substantial fines, but in reality, these sanctions are rarely imposed since the law states that police officers actually have to catch them in the act if they want to impose penalties.
In other news: Unpruned palm trees attacked by weevils in Orihuela Costa
Image: Ayuntamiento de Cerdanyola
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