The Government has begun distributing non-food items to evacuation centres across the Western Division, with plans underway to extend assistance to affected families who remained in their homes.
A total of 27 evacuation centres remain active across the Western Division as authorities continue to monitor the displacement of residents following recent weather disruptions.
Divisional Planning Officer West Elimi Rokoduru confirmed the figures yesterday, noting that while some centres had closed, others remained populated with a total of 701 evacuees.
According to the latest update, Nadi currently hosts the highest number of active sites.
“Currently we have four in Ba, five in Lautoka, 11 in Nadi and seven in Sigatoka,” Mr Rokoduru said.
In Sigatoka, the Malele area has been identified as one of the most significantly impacted sectors.
Mr Rokoduru clarified that those within the official 27 centres are being prioritised for structured support.
“I hope that those that are requesting for assistance are in the evacuation centres. That would make the work easier for us, so that we can capture their numbers and then we start working on their needs.”
Addressing the rise in numbers of evacuees, Mr Rokoduru said the state of personal dwellings remained the primary factor for those staying back.
Mr Rokoduru said less than five schools are currently being used as centres, and officials hope to have these cleared shortly.
He urged patience as teams worked to reach those in need.
