The Fiji Police Force has mandated movement restrictions in Ba, Tavua, and Rakiraki Town due to rising water levels threatening safety. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations (ACPO) Livai Driu noted that water has begun to seep into local shops, making it unsafe for residents to move through these areas.
These precautions aim to protect both the safety of the community and the integrity of the towns’ infrastructure. “We are taking this precaution because of everyone’s safety. This is also done to protect the properties in town from opportunists,” ACP Driu stated.
Currently, four evacuation centers are operational in the Western Division, providing shelter for 226 individuals, a figure likely to increase if rainfall persists. The main highway linking Ba to Rakiraki is closed to all traffic, and access to Tavua Town has also been restricted. Additionally, all traffic into Ba town has been halted.
The Fiji Police Force has deployed standby teams to evacuate individuals from disaster-prone areas and will remain vigilant throughout the night to monitor conditions.
In summary, local authorities are actively working to ensure public safety amid challenging weather conditions and are effectively managing evacuation efforts.
This situation highlights the importance of community resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters. It is crucial for residents to heed these warnings and follow safety protocols, which ultimately contribute to mitigating risks during such emergencies. The proactive measures taken by the authorities are commendable and reflect a strong commitment to ensuring the welfare of the affected communities.
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