Approximately 500 residents of Naqiliso Settlement in Davuilevu are facing significant challenges due to ongoing flooding, which they attribute to drainage issues caused by cemetery extension works conducted by the Fiji Corrections Service. Locals report that these construction efforts have blocked their main drainage system, leading to stagnant and foul-smelling water accumulating around homes, raising serious health and safety concerns.
Narayan Sami, a 25-year resident of the area, explained that the situation has deteriorated in recent days, particularly with increased rainfall. “The water keeps rising and there is nowhere for it to go; it’s almost coming into the houses,” he said. Sami also expressed concerns about the potential health risks for children, who are expected to attend school in these unsanitary conditions.
The residents previously raised alarms about the extension of the cemetery encroaching closer to their properties and were assured that consultations would happen before any further work. “We are not against the cemetery extension, but they should build a proper drain first. Without drainage, how can the water be controlled?” Sami emphasized. Unfortunately, residents feel their concerns have largely gone unaddressed by the contractors involved.
Another resident, minivan driver Sanjay Narayan, mentioned that persistent flooding has hindered his ability to work, as navigating through flooded streets risks damaging his vehicle’s engine. This situation highlights the economic impact of the flooding on local livelihoods.
The community is urgently appealing to authorities for the installation of an effective drainage system to alleviate their plight and protect families in the vicinity. Questions have been sent to the Fiji Corrections Service seeking an official response, but no reply has yet been received. As the situation develops, the hope remains that swift action will be taken to resolve this critical issue and restore normalcy to the lives of the affected residents.