Recent weather conditions have caused disruptions for businesses in several towns within the western division of Fiji, including Ba and Rakiraki. In these areas, rising water levels led to the closure of shops as floodwaters intruded into commercial establishments.
Moshin Khan, the Special Administrator for Ba Town Council, stated that closing Ba town was a necessary precaution to safeguard businesses from flood-related damage. He and his team have been collaborating with the Ba Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDMO), Fiji Police, and the National Fire Authority (NFA) to manage the situation effectively. Although Ba Main Street was open earlier in the day on Friday, it began to close between 1 PM and 2 PM due to increasing flood risks. Water entered the Market Arcade around 7 AM.
In Rakiraki, health inspector Serevi Nabura reported the temporary closure of MaxVal-U supermarket in Tavua. While Tavua town remained operational, local flooding near Shop N Shop supermarket due to river overflow created difficulties. Rakiraki town faced significant challenges, resulting in its closure as creek waters spilled into the area.
On a more positive note, the towns of Nadi and Nadroga/Navosa appeared to maintain a semblance of normalcy despite the weather conditions. Muni Reddy, the chief executive officer of Nadi Town Council, reported that businesses were engaged in cleanup efforts. Additionally, Suresh Naidu, chairman of the Nadroga Navosa Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that the rugby town continued its usual business activities, demonstrating resilience in the face of adverse weather.
This situation highlights the importance of community collaboration and readiness in weather-related emergencies. Despite the challenges presented by flooding, the stronger focus on emergency management and support from local councils and businesses in resilient regions showcases a collective effort to bounce back from adversity.
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