Communities in Rakiraki have raised their concerns on the poor drainage and flooding experienced over the past few weeks.
District Council of Social Services member Adi Vutevute Emi said poor drainage issues had lead to the drainage system acting as a place for collecting and transporting runoff water which was a contributing factor to the problem faced by nearby communities during the Easter holiday last week.
“Most of the areas/ communities and roads in Rakiraki got flooded due to water (rainfall) and poor drainage along the main Kings Highway and excess roads,” Ms Emi said.
The flooding had impacted various communities, she said, including Vunitogoloa Village, Navuavua Village, Navolau and Ellington in Rakiraki.
Ms Emi highlighted that the drainage channel was one of the essential factors in urban planning and made to accommodate excess surface water flow when it rains but instead it was taking water back to the community.
She said because of the flooding, many communities including hers were affected. “Poor drainage conditions cause various problems, one of which is flooding and inundation.
“Floods and puddles are problems that affect all aspects of life, thinking of our children and community members after any disaster.”
Minister for Rural, Maritime and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka said rehabilitation efforts to clear debris from flood prone areas in Rakiraki had commenced in coordination with the Commissioner Western Division and National Disaster Management Office (NDMO).
Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) executive director Vani Catanasiga extended her appreciation towards the efforts made by the ministry and relevant stakeholders in ensuring that excess water canals, drains and ditches were being cleared.
