As businesses and residents in Ba embark on recovery and cleanup efforts after a significant flooding event, concerns surrounding inadequate drainage and dredging are once again in the spotlight. The recent floods have caused extensive damage, prompting calls for immediate action to prevent future incidents.
Sheik Azam, the owner of Preeti Fashions, reported that he suffered losses as floodwaters surged to alarming heights. He attributed the flooding to a tree that fell into Elevuka Creek, criticizing the town council for its failure to address the situation promptly. Azam emphasized the need for swift improvements in drainage and dredging operations to alleviate the ongoing problem of repeated flooding affecting local residents.
In response to these concerns, the Ba Town Council’s Special Administrator noted that they had not been made aware of the fallen tree and reminded the public that the Ministry of Waterways holds primary responsibility for addressing such issues. Market vendor Avitesh Chand echoed these worries, urging authorities to take quick action to resolve the drainage deficiencies and conduct essential dredging activities.
While the Council highlighted that dredging works were completed last year, they acknowledged the geographical challenges posed by the area’s low-lying landscape, which makes some flooding unavoidable. The completion of the Ba River dredging in June 2025 is a step towards mitigating such recurrent flooding, yet the community’s desire for ongoing improvements remains strong.
As Ba moves forward from this challenging event, it is crucial for local authorities to engage with residents and ensure their concerns are heard, working together to build a more resilient infrastructure that can withstand future weather events. The collective efforts of the community and authorities may pave the way for a safer environment for all.
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