BLOCKED drains and insufficient drainage systems has been blamed for some of the flooding by residents of Teidamu in Lautoka.
Yesterday, a number of houses in the area were inundated by floodwaters when a nearby culvert could not handle the volume of water and debris caused by the heavy downpours over the Western Division.
Resident Chiranji Lal said the culvert was too small to cater for the water that streamed down from the Teidamu hills.
“For a couple of years now this has been happening, and it is because of this culvert,” said Mr Lal.
His neighbour, Praneet Kishore, who’s home had been affected by yesterday’s floods, said he had made several requests to the relevant authorities without any real solution.
“I had written letters and called several times, but nothing has been done,” said Mr Kishore.
“Now the bottom flat of my house has water in it and some of the electrical appliances is damaged.
“These things could be avoided if we just fix this small culvert.
“Every time it rains, there will be small branches and rubbish blocking this area, and when that happens, water comes into my yard.
“Today, because we have been having heavy rain since Friday, the water has gone over the culvert and onto the highway.
“I am pleading to the authorities and to FRA (Fiji Roads Authority) to please come and fix this problem because people’s homes are being affected by this.”
