Residents of Wailea Settlement in Vatuwaqa, Suva were not spared as the heavy downpour caused the Wailea River to overflow into their homes.
Residents Naicker and his wife Suruz Wati said yesterday they have been living in the settlement for more than 37 years and flooding was not uncommon during heavy rain.
“Many here have complained about the river for many years, but nothing has been done,” Mr Naicker said.
“There is a sewer line up the road and sometimes when there’s flooding, the water brings in raw sewerage along with the smell.”
Mr Naicker said residents have pleaded with relevant authorities for a seawall to prevent water from the river seeping into their compounds.
“Children and old people live in this area and have to cross the bridge during heavy rain. It is unsafe.
“We can’t do much because it’s a river but if something can be done to help stop it from overflowing, then that would be helpful.”
Mr Naicker is also pleading for the road into their settlement to be fixed.
“Our son is disabled, he is 44 years old and sometimes we have to push him in the wheelchair from the main road when drivers refuse to drive in.
“During heavy rain, sometimes we have to walk in with our shopping when drivers refuse to drop us inside.”
