The Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Vatimi Rayalu, has promised rice farmers in Dreketi, Macuata, that all drainage issues will be resolved. Mr. Rayalu noted that a drainage board has been established to tackle these concerns and encouraged farmers in Vanua Levu to take advantage of this initiative by visiting the drainage board office in Labasa.
Seventy-five-year-old farmer Ram Khewal commended the government for the drainage work done at Laqere, Tabia, Labasa, stating that more than half of the drainage improvements have been finished. Khewal, who is also the president of the Laqere Tabia Farmers Cooperative, urged the government to build a seawall at their location to protect rice farms from damage. He highlighted that every year, heavy rains result in the loss of around 30 acres of rice fields, posing a significant threat to local farmers and food security.
“We have been requesting a seawall for at least four years, but nothing has been done by the government or the Ministry of Waterways,” he expressed. Khewal plans to apply for the rice planting subsidy but believes there is room for enhancement in rice production efforts. He advocated for more consultations where farmers can engage with relevant authorities and the government to express their concerns and propose solutions regarding drainage challenges collaboratively.
Additionally, drainage works have also been completed in Soasoa, Labasa, an area that frequently experiences flooding during heavy rainfall.