Business owners in Nadi Town are struggling with the aftermath of recent floods, which not only impacted their shops but also left them dealing with human waste found in their shop corridors. This distressing situation has resulted in shopkeepers having to clean up feces, believed to be from individuals with mental challenges who often sleep in these areas.
Bobby Janendra Vikash, the proprietor of Mega Paper Supplies, shared his frustration regarding this ongoing issue, stating he has repeatedly brought it to the attention of the Nadi Town Council. The situation has become increasingly untenable, with waste found in shop corridors and on the main street following the flood. Vikash noted the unpleasant odors were so overwhelming that he found the need to clean both his shop front and surrounding areas.
Saliceni Raiwalui, the Special Administrator of the council, recognized the necessity for collective action to resolve this problem. He acknowledged that the council has been receiving complaints and highlighted that the issue of street-dwelling individuals is not new. While efforts to provide support for this population have been made—taking some individuals back to their homes and others to mental health facilities—many continue to return to the streets. Raiwalui suggested implementing stricter measures to deter such behavior, reflecting on the need for responsibility in maintaining a clean environment.
Vikash, who also serves as an advisory councillor and chairman of the Nadi district, pointed to the role of littering in exacerbating flooding issues in rural areas, noting that blocked drains often lead to this problem. He asserted that more should be done to tackle careless littering and proposed that the Ministry of Health and Environment appoint littering officers to address this growing concern actively.
This situation underscores the broader challenges facing urban environments, particularly regarding mental health and waste management. It emphasizes the importance of community collaboration and individual responsibility in keeping public spaces clean and safe for all.
Given the challenging circumstances, there is hope that with increased awareness and coordinated efforts, the community can find effective solutions to ensure public spaces are not only maintainable but also supportive for all its inhabitants.
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