AN environment impact assessment has been carried out for dredging works along the Nasivi River in Tavua.

While speaking at the public consultations held by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama in Tavua last week, Minister for Waterways Dr Mahendra Reddy said they were aware of the growing flooding issues in communities located alongside the river.

“This is a massive exercise for us, to fully address flooding issue in these areas,” he said.

“We have seen the debris collected along the river and we know that it needs to be removed.

“There also needs to be dredging works carried out.

“It will take more than several thousands of dollars to carry out these works and to remove the debris.

“We want to assure the residents in these areas that we are looking into the problem of flooding near the river.”

Concerns were raised by residents who had experienced a number of floods since the start of the year.

Residents in the Yaladro flats were the most affected during heavy downpours.