The Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) is taking steps to clarify misinformation circulating about its expansion works at the Nasinu Cemetery. The FCS has categorically stated that the ongoing construction is not responsible for the recent flooding experienced in the Naqiliso Settlement.
FCS emphasized that they have engaged in discussions with contractors, environmental consultants, and local authorities, including the Department of Environment, Fiji Roads Authority, and Nausori Town Council, since the project’s inception. Meetings were also held with community leaders, both before the flooding occurred and during the event itself, to discuss potential solutions.
According to the FCS, the flooding issues in the informal settlement stem from inadequate drainage systems. The settlement has been burdened with a blockage in its drainage due to accumulated waste over the years, resulting in wastewater and sewage buildup.
To help alleviate flooding, the FCS and its contractors proposed the construction of a new culvert. However, they noted that many structures in the settlement, including bathrooms and pipes, extend illegally into FCS land, complicating the efforts. The service confirmed that it has obtained all necessary construction approvals from relevant authorities, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
Further complicating matters, the FCS reported that residents have been improperly discharging waste into their property, exacerbating drainage issues. Recent evaluations revealed that some structures encroach onto FCS land, prompting the Department of Lands to issue notices to residents for removal of these encroachments. A second notice has recently been issued, granting a 14-day ultimatum.
Once these encroachments are addressed, the FCS plans to enhance the drainage system to manage water flow more effectively. It also revealed that the flooding is largely due to wastewater from the community, exacerbated by heavy rainfall.
In a collective effort to improve the situation, the FCS will collaborate with health authorities to begin cleaning up the accumulated waste within its property, which consists of discarded items that contribute to drainage blockages.
Moreover, a long-term initiative is in place involving the Fiji Roads Authority and the Lands Department, aiming to clear government road reserve land adjacent to the FCS property to further improve accessibility and drainage.
The FCS remains committed to ensuring the safety of community members in the surrounding area and will continue its consultation efforts. The organization has also expressed a desire for media representatives to seek balanced perspectives before publishing reports related to such issues.
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