Municipalities urged to optimize gardener productivity for park upkeep

Many municipalities employ gardeners to maintain public parks and green spaces, with typical working hours set from 8am to 4pm over five days a week. However, concerns have been raised regarding the actual productivity of these gardeners, especially during hot summer months.

Observations suggest that some gardeners may only work around four hours a day, often disappearing after the mid-day break. To address this issue, proposals have been made to adjust their schedules based on weather conditions. One suggestion is to shift to a 5am-1pm schedule during the summer to maximize efficiency.

Furthermore, the current five-day workweek may not be sufficient for maintaining parks that are frequented by visitors seven days a week. It is crucial to ensure consistent upkeep, particularly during weekends when parks see the highest footfall.

Recommendations include reevaluating work schedules, providing training programs for gardeners and supervisors, and implementing basic management practices to improve accountability and performance.

By making these changes, not only will the working conditions for gardeners improve, but visitors to public parks can also enjoy a cleaner and well-maintained environment.

Efforts to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of gardeners in public spaces are essential for ensuring the upkeep of parks and green areas. By optimizing work schedules, providing training, and implementing management practices, municipalities can create a more pleasant experience for park visitors while supporting the well-being of gardeners.