A fire at the Vunato landfill in Lautoka has once again engulfed the city in thick smoke, raising significant health concerns among residents. This ongoing issue has plagued the community for years, with the smoke frequently lingering for days and spreading unpleasant odors throughout Lautoka.
Although the cause of the latest fire has yet to be confirmed, local residents have expressed frustration over the repetitive nature of these incidents, calling for permanent solutions to alleviate the situation. Lautoka Ratepayers Association President Narayan Reddy highlighted the urgency of the matter, stating he alerted authorities early in the morning due to the potentially dangerous conditions.
“This has been an ongoing problem for the last 10 years. Every year after the clean-up campaign, the fire starts, and this year is no exception,” Reddy remarked.
Residents like Lodoviko Cakau have voiced their distress about the unbearable stench coming from the landfill, particularly during fires. “Different types of waste are dumped there — chemicals, household items, even industrial waste — and when a fire starts, the smoke spreads that awful odor across the area,” Cakau commented.
Mereia Naimutu, President of the Lovu HART Community, expressed particular concern for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those living with disabilities. She conveyed that the health risks posed by the smoke are especially concerning for these groups. “We have many elderly people and children here. Some live with disabilities, and others are unwell. This is a real concern for us—especially for their health when the smoke spreads,” Naimutu stated.
In response to this persistent issue, residents are demanding a lasting solution to prevent landfill fires and protect their health from constant smoke exposure. Suggestions have included the installation of hydrants at the site to assist firefighters in controlling future blazes.
Looking ahead, Lautoka City Council CEO Mohammed Khan has announced a feasibility study for a new landfill site, which aims to implement a project akin to the successful Naboro Landfill concept. This endeavor could represent a hopeful step towards resolving the long-standing waste management challenges that have hindered the city. With collaboration between the local government and communities, there is a renewed sense of optimism that effective waste management solutions will emerge, ultimately promoting better health and environmental conditions for Lautoka’s residents.