Businesses in several towns across the western division, including Ba and Rakiraki, faced significant disruptions due to adverse weather conditions. Rising water levels forced the closure of shops in both towns, prompting local officials to take actions aimed at safeguarding businesses and the community.
Moshin Khan, the Special Administrator for Ba Town Council, emphasized the importance of closing the town during flooding to protect local businesses. Khan has been collaborating with various organizations, including the Ba Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDMO), the Fiji Police, and the National Fire Authority (NFA), to manage the situation effectively. Although Ba Main Street opened on Friday, businesses started closing between 1 PM and 2 PM due to rising water that affected the Market Arcade, where water began entering at 7 AM.
Serevi Nabura, the health inspector for Rakiraki/Tavua Town Council, reported that MaxVal-U supermarket in Tavua had to close for the day as the town experienced flooding, particularly near the Shop N Shop supermarket. Rakiraki dealt with challenges as well, with rising creek water leading to the closure of the town.
In contrast, Nadi and Nadroga/Navosa seem to have fared better during the adverse weather conditions. Muni Reddy, the CEO of Nadi Town Council, noted that local businesses have resumed operations and initiated cleanup efforts. Suresh Naidu, chairman of the Nadroga Navosa Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reported a return to normalcy in the region known as rugby town.
This situation underscores the resilience of communities in the face of challenging weather. While the immediate impacts on businesses are significant, concerted efforts by local officials and organizations illustrate a strong commitment to recovery and support for affected individuals. As the weather improves, there is hope that businesses will swiftly bounce back, reinforcing community ties and enhancing economic stability.
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