The trash was historic too

Updated on: 23 January,2009 08:23 AM IST |
Washington |

Workers clear 130 tonnes of garbage a day after Obama inauguration

Workers clear 130 tonnes of garbage a day after Obama inauguration

tough job: Workers clean up the garbage left behind on Tuesday night on Wednesday

Washington trash trucks hauled away at least 130 tonnes of garbage after the inauguration of US President Barack Obama, with more to go. Workers picked up almost 100 tonnes on the Mall and near the White House.

Because most trash cans had been removed for security reasons and a record-breaking crowd gathered downtown, the mountain of rubbish left behind was of historic proportions.

"More than any Fourth of July, more than any event we've seen," said municipal spokesman William Line.

The detritus included handwarmer packets, bottles, food, newspapers, blankets, gloves, coolers and tables.

"They left behind Obama hats, Obama bags, Obama socks," said Mafara Hobson, spokeswoman for Mayor Adrian M Fenty. "People left behind a lot of trash. A lot of it was the vendors along the parade route, too."

"There was so much trash left behind. Piles and piles," said a worker. "When all those people were there, you didn't realise how bad it was. But once they left, we saw the work ahead." u00a0

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