The infrastructure of critical waterways, such as floodgates and sea walls, is deteriorating because of its age, says Waterways Minister Vatimi Rayalu.
Mr Rayalu explained that most of these structures, built in the 1970s, were no longer fit for purpose.
“The increase in rainfall and flooding has caused significant damage to these systems,” he said.
“The rainfall and floods we’re experiencing now are unlike what we saw in the past.”
He said the infrastructure, originally designed to handle less extreme weather, could no longer withstand the volume of water.
“Our engineers are working on new designs to help manage these extreme weather events more effectively,” Mr Rayalu said.
The minister also noted that the damaged infrastructure has caused seawater intrusion, leading to complaints from farmers about crop and vegetable damage.
Updating the infrastructure, Mr Rayalu said, it was critical to address the current challenges and prepare for future weather patterns.
