Business owners in Nadi Town are currently grappling with significant challenges following recent floods. The surge of floodwaters not only inundated their businesses but has also left them dealing with the unpalatable task of cleaning human waste found in the shop corridors. This waste is believed to have originated from individuals who are mentally distressed, many of whom seek shelter in these areas at night.
Store owners were alarmed to discover human feces littering their shop fronts, along main streets, and in public areas near streetlights once the floodwaters receded. Bobby Janendra Vikash, proprietor of Mega Paper Supplies, voiced his frustration at the ongoing situation, revealing that he has previously raised the matter with the Nadi Town Council. He lamented that it is the business owners, not the council, who are left to clean up after those who use the corridors for refuge.
Vikash mentioned that the smell emanating from the waste was overwhelming, compelling him to clean both his shop’s corridor and the adjacent street. Saliceni Raiwalui, the Special Administrator of the council, confirmed that addressing this situation requires the cooperation of multiple stakeholders. He acknowledged the complaints regarding street cleanliness and highlighted that the council cannot tackle the problem in isolation.
Raiwalui provided insights into what has been done to assist those affected, mentioning that individuals with mental health issues have been taken to Saint Giles Hospital, yet many return to the streets. He proposed that stronger measures may be necessary to manage the problem, suggesting that those leaving waste in public areas may need to face stricter consequences.
In discussing responsibility for cleanliness, Raiwalui drew parallels between individuals who are mentally unstable and those who knowingly litter, reinforcing the notion that public cooperation is essential for maintaining a clean environment. Vikash echoed this, indicating that blocked drains in rural areas often lead to flooding and are exacerbated by littering, calling for the Ministry of Health and Environment to deploy littering officers to enforce accountability.
This incident highlights broader issues of community responsibility and the need for effective collaboration between local authorities and the public. While the current circumstances present challenges, the dialogue initiated by business owners and council leadership suggests a pathway toward cleaner streets and improved conditions for both residents and those affected by mental health issues.
In summary, it is a complex situation where recent flooding not only impacted businesses physically but also raised awareness about mental health support in the community and the shared responsibility for cleanliness. With proactive measures and community cooperation, there is hope for a more sustainable and supportive environment in Nadi Town.
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