For the third time, a drain in Tacirua East, Suva, has claimed a life.
Last Saturday, an 18-year-old student of Assemblies of God High School was swept away while trying to wash her shoes in a drain along Raibaba St.
Her body was recovered the following day at Cunningham Creek by a nearby resident and Police.
Earlier this year, the same deadly drains claimed a 24-year-old man along Qakilo Rd, and an eight-year-old child also lost his life in another incident.
Residents have long warned about the hazards posed by the deep, unprotected drains, which become especially dangerous during heavy rain.
They are calling for urgent action to stop the deadly pattern before it claims more victims.
Niumaia Gaunavinaka, who assisted in the recovery, described the drains as a “recurring threat” to the community.
“It is unsafe, especially for children.
“When filled, the current can easily sweep a person away.
We urge authorities to install protective barriers or covers to prevent further tragedies.”
Police have not yet released a statement on the latest incident.
