Business owners in Nadi Town are confronting a challenging situation in the aftermath of recent flooding. The heavy rains not only damaged their businesses but also left them with the task of cleaning up human waste found in shop corridors. It is believed that the waste comes from individuals dealing with mental health issues, many of whom have taken to sleeping in these public areas.
One business owner, Bobby Janendra Vikash of Mega Paper Supplies, voiced his frustration over the situation, stating that the responsibility of cleaning falls on the shop owners rather than the Nadi Town Council. Upon returning to work after the floodwaters receded, he discovered human waste strewn across shop corridors and main streets, creating an unbearable stench.
Saliceni Raiwalui, the Special Administrator for the Council, acknowledged the issue and mentioned the necessity of collaboration among various stakeholders to resolve it. He stressed that while some individuals with mental health challenges have been taken to Saint Giles Hospital or their homes, they often return to the streets. Mr. Raiwalui suggested that stricter measures might be needed to discourage this behavior, proposing that those found creating disturbances should face consequences.
He also drew attention to the broader issue of littering in the community, urging residents to be more responsible in maintaining a clean environment. Mr. Vikash, who holds the position of advisory councillor and chairman of the Nadi district, linked the flooding in rural areas to clogged drains caused by litter.
To address both littering and flooding solutions, he proposed that the Ministry of Health and Environment could appoint littering officers to monitor and take action against careless disposers.
In summary, Nadi Town business owners are grappling with the effects of flooding and health-related issues among street populations, leading to a call for increased community engagement and responsibility. This situation highlights the need for a coordinated approach that brings together local authorities and health services to address the root causes of both environmental cleanliness and mental health support.
Despite the challenges faced, there is hope that with collective action and stronger community responsibility, Nadi Town can overcome these issues. Engaging in dialogue among residents, businesses, and local authorities could pave the way for more innovative solutions that ensure the safety and well-being of all community members while protecting local businesses.
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