Joe Morell, the owner of Navatu Kava Bar, has raised serious concerns about the persistent flooding issues affecting local businesses in Labasa. He voiced his worries regarding the risk of heavy rainfall causing shops to flood due to blocked drainage systems, underscoring the immediate need for upgrades to the town’s drainage infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future.
Paul Jaduram, the Chair of the Labasa Town Council, has acknowledged the ongoing drainage issues and confirmed that efforts are being made to resolve these challenges. With the cyclone season approaching, there is a growing chorus of demands from both residents and business owners for local authorities to prioritize drainage maintenance. This proactive approach is seen as essential to prevent further flooding and potential damage to properties.
The situation in Labasa echoes frustrations reported in other areas, notably Sigatoka, where local businesses have criticized the Ministry of Waterways and the Fiji Roads Authority for the lack of maintenance on drainage systems. Suresh Naidu, president of the Nadroga Navosa Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has voiced similar concerns, indicating that poor drainage infrastructure has significantly impacted businesses and hampered the local economy.
In both regions, community members are urging for swift action to address these infrastructure deficiencies, emphasizing the broader implications for public safety and economic stability in the face of natural disasters. The rising awareness among citizens and business owners creates a hopeful anticipation that their concerns will lead to meaningful reforms and proactive steps to reduce flooding risks and enhance the resilience of these communities.