A persistent drainage and sanitation problem near the Nabua bus stop is causing significant disruptions for local businesses and market vendors, presenting concerns over health and daily operations. The issue, characterized by unpleasant odors and frequent flooding, has been impacting the routine activities of those working in the area.
According to local vendors and employees, the foul smell emanates from nearby drains, intensifying during rainy weather. Retail worker Elisha Dayal expressed frustration, noting that heavy rainfall often causes floodwater to infiltrate their shop, further complicating business operations and heightening health risks. “Not only us, but all the shops have been going through that; all the shops around here in Nabua are affected by the smells and the drain damage during heavy rain,” Dayal remarked.
Market vendor Vutaieli Tokalaulevu highlighted that the severity of the odor has increased over time, becoming unbearable for those working in the market. “The drain seems to be causing the smell. When it is windy, that’s when the smell really reaches right inside the market where we are sitting, and it gets even worse when it rains,” Tokalaulevu explained.
Another local resident voiced concerns, stating that the stench permeates the market and lingers for extended periods, making it difficult for vendors to operate effectively. They added, “The smell is very strong. We cannot endure it when it comes out, so they either need to assess the drainage or look into the sewage issues affecting all of us. We are unaware of when they plan to take a closer look at this situation.”
So far, complaints directed to the Suva City Council have gone unanswered. The affected parties are now appealing for prompt action to rectify the drainage issues and address the underlying sanitation problems that are jeopardizing their livelihoods and public health.
This situation underscores the importance of municipal responsiveness in addressing infrastructure challenges that directly impact community well-being. The resilience of the vendors and their collective call for help serve as a reminder of the need for effective solutions that prioritize public health and support local economies.