THE $3million allocated for the Western Division Remediation Program is not enough, says Lautoka Ratepayers and Residents Association president Narayan Reddy.
While delivering the 2026-2027 National Budget in Parliament yesterday Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel said a budget of $3million had been allocated for this program.
Mr Immanuel said this investment would support the rehabilitation of unmanaged dumpsites, reduce environmental and public health risks while improve waste management and creating opportunities for future sustainable land use.
In response, Mr Reddy said the amount was not enough to cater for the dump sites in the Western Division.
“It is a very small amount especially for Lautoka which looks after rubbish from Nadi, Denarau, and the outer islands outside off Lautoka,” he said.
“Sigatoka got their own dump site and Rakiraki got their own dump site.
“So how will they manage with these $3million and will that be sufficient.”
Mr Reddy said the Lautoka dump site in Vunato would often catch fire and poses environmental risks to residents.
“For the last 15 years I have been involved with the Lautoka City Council we will have one or two dump fires between September to December.
“There is nothing in the budget to support the dump fire or if the dump catches fire how will they get it out there is nothing in the budget for that and which is very sad.
“Whatever allocation Government gives we understand the circumstances of the budget they are giving it but then again is it enough?
“It’s not enough for Lautoka Rubbish Dump which caters for Nadi, Denarau and the outer islands rubbish.
“And the problem is our dump site is full we all know that the Lautoka Dump was supposed to be relocated five years ago but, in the budget, there is no relocation for the Lautoka Rubbish Dump.”
