Business owners in Nadi Town are grappling with significant challenges following recent flooding that not only impacted their shops but also left them dealing with human waste in the aftermath. This unpleasant situation has arisen from the floods combined with the presence of individuals, many grappling with mental health issues, who have sought refuge in shop corridors.
Bobby Janendra Vikash, the proprietor of Mega Paper Supplies, voiced his concerns regarding the issue. He lamented that owners like him are left to clean the mess, despite raising the problem with the Nadi Town Council multiple times. The floodwaters revealed the distressing reality as shop corridors, the main street, and surrounding areas became littered with human waste.
Vikash highlighted that since the flood, the smell has become unbearable, compelling him to clean both his shop area and the adjacent street. Council’s Special Administrator, Saliceni Raiwalui, acknowledged the complexity of the situation, which requires collaboration among various stakeholders. He pointed out that while the ministry and other organizations have made efforts to assist individuals in need, many still return to the streets.
To tackle the problem, Mr. Raiwalui proposed exploring stronger enforcement measures against individuals who engage in such unsanitary activities. He noted that the responsibility extends beyond those who are mentally unstable to community members who continually litter, drawing a parallel between these behaviors.
Mr. Vikash, who also holds a position as an advisory councillor and chairman of the Nadi district, underscored how flooding in rural areas is frequently linked to blocked drainage systems caused by litter. He suggested that the Ministry of Health and Environment could benefit from appointing littering officers to help monitor and penalize littering activities.
In conclusion, while the situation in Nadi Town remains challenging due to the interplay of mental health issues, flooding, and littering, the community is actively seeking solutions. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders and implementing stricter measures, there is hope for a cleaner and healthier environment in the future. The ongoing dialogue on these pressing issues could very well lead to lasting improvements for Nadi Town and its residents.
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