Ba Town in a mess
THE situation in Ba Town was described by Ba Town Council Board of Special Administrators chairman Moshim Khan (FT: 03/03) as devastating and staggering. Floodwaters had a drastic impact on the residents of Ba as they fought nature’s cruelty, accepting with heavy hearts the damage arising from floodwaters and then joining hands to clean-up. It’s a pity that the relentless rain had no mercy and unleashed the worst floods the town saw in years. Homes, businesses, and vital infrastructure were submerged, leaving residents stranded, counting the cost of damage and bracing for a long, uncertain recovery, especially when the weather was not in their favour. The football crazy town was brought to a standstill as more than 50 per cent of Ba was swallowed by floodwater. The residents took time to clean the thick silt and debris. Life is such and most people in Ba are used to nature’s injustice. They will come out of the mess. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Irresponsible behaviour
With widespread flooding wreaking havoc across towns and road networks, it is not uncommon to see both adults and children merrily swimming in flooded creeks, drains, and compounds. In many rural and village areas, people are also observed making dangerous, acrobatic jumps off bridges into swollen rivers. This reckless behaviour continues despite the alarming rise in water-borne diseases such as leptospirosis, which has already claimed lives in some cases. Unfortunately, many still ignore repeated warnings from authorities. Truly a sad and troubling situation. Only in Fiji, I guess. Nishant Singh Lautoka
Extreme weather
Is it strange that extreme weather conditions excite me? I understand that mother nature has the potential to cause massive amounts of damage, and she does not take mercy on those she smacks with a heavy hand but extreme weather conditions cause a jump of excitement and curiosity inside of me. I’ve always been obsessed with the weather, and hyper sensitive to shifts in the air pressure. Maybe this is a sign of an underlying passion that I have yet to tap into? Maybe I should pick up a few books, study weather history and patterns for a while, and become one of those people who follow extreme weather for the sake of knowledge. PS: Not the same kind of excitement my marama tau Aralai gives me though. Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
Rescue from the Middle East
There is a lot of talk in Australia about special missions to evacuate Australians stranded in the Middle East due to the current conflict. There are an estimated 115,000 Australians stranded there. We all know that Fiji Airways has special experience in this area from their involvement in “The Great Escape from Tel Aviv” in October 2023 where they rescued Fijians who went on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem when Hamas attacked Israel. I believe Fiji Airways should offer this rescue service to Australia and I am sure the Australian government will pay handsomely. Jan Nissar Sydney, NSW, Australia
Religious unity
Religious organisations like TISI Sangam, Andhra, Sanatan, and the Fiji Muslim League have shown amazing dedication and organisational skills in planning and running their annual conventions successfully and reliably, year after year. These events usually take place during the Easter season. They play a crucial role in bringing followers closer together and strengthening community bonds. The success of these gatherings heavily relies on the commitment and active participation of members. Their presence reflects their loyalty, trust, and steadfast support for the organisation. A united and thriving congregation showcases the energy and strength of the group. One of the highlights of these conventions is the sports activities and cultural and musical performances; without them, the events would feel incomplete. he vibrant presence of participants and supporters adds a special energy and joy, turning the occasion into a genuine celebration. Organising these conventions each year is no easy task. It requires a lot of effort, meticulous planning, and the dedication of experienced individuals who work hard to ensure everything runs smoothly. The seamless execution of these events highlights the incredible support and unity within the organisation. This tradition is passed down through generations. It’s great to see that the visionary goals and purpose of the event remain strong. I extend my heartfelt wishes to all upcoming conventions. Suresh Chand Nadi
Relief distribution
Ministry for Rural Development assisting families at Naqiliso Settlement, Davuilevu (FT 2/3/26). Wasn’t the flood caused by the nearby construction activities? And following Tropical Cyclone Urmil’s continuous downpour, the scenario becomes worse. However, I am certain that the settlement’s spokesman has been publicly exposing the issue since last week and nothing has been done to alleviate or control the problem. All of a sudden, the Minister for Rural Development appeared, just helping the residents to cope, instead of addressing the issue, in my opinion. Is this not the typical “hallmark” of the Government’s leadership style? Always providing solutions for the public to cope with its failures, rather than addressing the root causes. From my perspective, this was a “simplified image” that clearly defined how people are being used, for political gains. Very sad indeed. Samu Silatolu Nakasi
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Khamenei killing
The killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is a grave mistake by the US and Israel. Khamenei was regarded as the leader of the Shi’ite Muslims all over the world. Trump is now moving four days of military operations to 4 to 5 weeks. German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz says, “now was not the time to lecture partners and allies, despite doubts” (FT 03/03). He should spell out those doubts explicitly. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Traffic jams
Manoa Kaleca’s writing in The Fiji Times on road congestion along the Suva-Nausori corridor (FT 22/2) alerts travellers and authorities concerned as many are not able to keep up with their appointments and report late to work with pay loss. To solve this growing problem needs careful planning. Let’s try by limiting vehicles with legislation. Downsize to less than two vehicles per household, more bus travel for workers and school children. arpooling with neighbours and friends. Use of motorcycles and bicycles to ease traffic jams. Road safety is everyone’s concern. Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
Flooding issue
Has anyone realised that current flooding in most municipal towns is because of old small drains built when our population was less and there were not many buildings? In the past 20 years, our towns and cities have developed with more buildings, but our drainage and sewer systems remained the same. Our town planners need to do a better job planning for bigger and better drainage systems for future, otherwise flooding will be something that will affect people and businesses every rainy season. Narayan Reddy Lautoka
Call centre
A 24-hour dedicated call centre has been established at the Fiji Police headquarters. Hopefully, it will be unlike calling police stations where calls are unanswered. Sobo! Wise Muavono Balawa, Lautoka
Consequences of indecision
When a leader is indecisive, things are left to the elements and the “crocodiles in the pond” have a free for all. When a commander in the theatre of war is indecisive, his men and women in armour lose all respect for the commander. When a leader and a commander is indecisive and looks to speak to God and acts for self-interest and self-preservation, then I believe he is not a good leader. Jan Nissar Sydney, NSW, Australia
Pension fund and Iran war
