Residents of the Naqaliso Settlement in Davuilevu Housing are increasingly alarmed as heavy rainfall and a tropical depression approach, threatening to intensify flooding that has already compromised their homes. Local families believe that recent development work has blocked drainage systems, disrupting natural water flow and exacerbating the flooding, particularly in low-lying areas.
Health concerns have risen sharply, with leptospirosis and dengue fever becoming significant threats to the community. In response to the flooding and drainage issues, residents have contacted the Ministry of Justice and the Fiji Corrections Services, which have since referred the matter to the Ministry of Waterways and the Fiji Roads Authority for further investigation.
Ashwini Lata, the Settlement Committee President, pointed out that poor planning by contractors has contributed to the current crisis. “This flooding is a direct result of inadequate planning. Children are unable to attend school because roads and walkways are submerged. Elderly residents are also facing challenges in moving around and accessing necessary health services. Our daily lives have been severely disrupted,” Lata expressed.
The ongoing flooding has made schools difficult to reach and has hindered elderly residents in seeking medical attention. Lata cautioned that without prompt action to repair the drainage systems, the community could face repeated flooding with each bout of heavy rain.
Residents are urgently appealing for the restoration of the drainage systems before the arrival of the impending tropical depression. Lata emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are very concerned about the health risks related to stagnant water, especially with another tropical depression approaching. We urge the government and the Ministry of Health to conduct an immediate survey of the area to prevent further deterioration. Immediate action is crucial.”
The united voices of the community underscore the urgent need for intervention to protect the well-being of residents as they face the potential worsening of their situation. With prompt action and support from authorities, the community can hope for a resolution that alleviates the flooding and related health risks they currently face.